/ 


THE  UNIVERSITY 
OF  ILLINOIS 
LIBRARY 

From  the  col lection  of 
Julius  Doerner,  Chicago 
Purchased,  1918. 

ZG8 


The  person  charging  this  material  is  re- 
sponsible for  its  return  to  the  library  from 
which  it  was  withdrawn  on  or  before  the 
Latest  Date  stamped  below. 

Theft,  mutilation,  and  underlining  of  books 
are  reasons  for  disciplinary  action  and  may 
result  in  dismissal  from  the  University. 

UNIVERSITY   OF    ILLINOIS    LIBRARY   AT  URBANA-CHAMPAIGN 


L161  — O-1096 


GATHERED  SHEAYES, 


BY 

EDMUND  CLARK, 

AUTHOR  OF  "  PEARLS  RE-SET,"  ETC, 


The  harvest  gathered  in  the  fields  of  the  Past,  is  to  be  brought 
home  for  the  use  of  the  present." 


BOSTON: 
PUBLISHED  BY  HENRY  HOYT, 

No.   9  CORNHILL. 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1876,  by 

HENRY  HOYT, 
In  the  Office  of  the  Librarian  of  Congress,  at  Washington. 


TO  THE  TEACHERS 

OP 

MY  SUM)AY  SCHOOL,  VALLEY  FALLS, 

WHOSE  CHEERFUL,  AND   ACTIVE  CO-OPERATION 
IN    SABBATH    SCHOOL    WORK,   HAS  SO 
OFTEN  LIGHTENED  THE  LABORS 
AND  DUTIES  OF  THEIR 
SUPERINTENDENT, 

THIS  VOLUME 

IS  RESPECTFULLY  INSCRIBED. 


2480 


PREFACE 


THE  success  which  has  attended  previous  vol- 
umes, and  the  constantly  increasing  demand 
for  exercises  for  use  in  the  Sunday  School  Con- 
cert, has  led  the  author  to  arrange  and  compile  this 
book  of  "  Gathered  Sheaves." 

It  is  divided,  for  convenience,  into  five  depart- 
ments. "  Primary  Class  Exercises,"  and  "  Selec- 
tions for  Primary  Class  Recitations,"  are  designed 
for  what  was  formerly  known  as  "  The  Infant 
Class,"  now  called  "  The  Primary  Class,"  composed 
usually  of  boys  and  girls  from  seven  to  ten  years 
of  age.  The  words  in  these  exercises  and  selec- 
tions are  simple,  easily-  understood,  and  can  be  com- 
mitted to  memory  by  the  smallest  of  scholars. — 
"Class  Recitations"  is  intended  for  teachers  who 
are  always  inquiring,  "  What  shall  I  have  for  my 
class  to  recite  at  the  next  Concert  ?  " 

General  Exercises  "  are  for  use  by  the  school 
at  large.  These  exercises  are  all  new,  (excepting 
"  Rock  of  Ages,"  and  "  Bear  the  Cross  —  Wear 
the  Crown,"  published  in  the  Baptist  Teacher,  and 
inserted  by  request  in  this  collection,)  and  have 
never  been  published  before.  They  are  void  of 
5 


vi 


PREFACE. 


sensationalism,  and,  if  recited  in  a  proper  man- 
ner, deeply  interesting,  and  will  serve  to  make 
gospel  truth  more  impressive.  While  some  are 
particularly  adapted  to  special  occasions,  any  of 
them  may  be  used  at  any  season  of  the  year,  with 
great  profit.  "  Poetical  Selections,"  for  Adult 
Scholars,  comprises  a  series  of  poems  of  a  class 
which  is  always  desirable  in  the  Concert. 

In  preparing  Gathered  Sheaves,  much  assistance 
has  been  derived,  and  copious  extracts  made,  from 
compilations  of  religious  poetry,  such  as  the 
Changed  Cross,  Shadow  of  the  Rock,  Cheering 
Words,  Chamber  of  Peace,  Under  the  Cross,  and 
others  of  a  like  character.  These  exceedingly 
useful  books,  should  be  in  the  library  of  all  Sunday 
School  workers. 

Let  it  always  be  borne  in  mind,  that  the  Real 
Sunday  School  Concert  is  a  service  of  devotion,  to 
be  characterized  by  so  much  warmth  and  fervor, 
that  it  may  be  the  instrument  of  doing  great  good, 
and  of  bringing  many  souls  into  the  kingdom  of 
God. 


CONTENTS. 

Primary  Class  Exercises. 

Alphabet  of  Intemperance,    -         •  •  -  13 

Come  Unto  Me.         -         -         -  -  -  19 

All  for  Jesus,  .         -         •         •  •  -  22 

Little  Pilgrims,         -         -         -  -  -  24 

What  says  the  Clock?         -         -  -  -  27 

The  Flower  Gorden — Floral  Exercise,  -  -  29 

God's  Works,   -  31 

Selections  for  Primary  Class  Recitations. 

Busy  Hands  and  Feet,         -         -  -  -  37 

God's  Blessing,         -         -         -  -  -  39 

What  can  we  do  for  Jesus?  -        -  -  -  40 

How  to  be  Good,      -        -        -  -  -  41 

The  Brook,  42 

The  Morning  Star,     -        -        -  -  -  42 

The  Kind  Angel,       -        -        -  -  -  43 

The  Great  Teacher,   •        -        -  -  -  43 

Samuel,          -         -        -         -  -  -  44 

Importance  of  the  Bible,      ^        •  -  -  44 

Our  Saviour's  Golden  Rule,  -        -  -  -  45 

The  Frozen  Star,       -        -        -  -  -  45 

Evening  Hymn,        -        -        -  -  -  45 

The  Seasons,   -        -        -        -  •  -  46 

7 


viii 


CONTENTS. 


Primary  Class  Recitations. 

The  Angel  Guard,     -         -  -  -  -  46 

Gen.  Washington,      -        -  •  -  -  48 

Going  to  Bed,           -        -  -  .  -  48 

June  Roses,     -        -        -  -  •  -  49 

Do  right,        -         -         -  -  •  -  49 

The  Flowers,  -        -         -  -  -  -  50 

The  Child  in  Heaven,          -  •  •  -  50 

Little  Things,           -        -  .  .  -  51 

Saturday  Night,        -         -  -  -  -  51 

Flowers,          -        -        •  -  -  -  51 

Where  is  God?   52 

Evening  Prayer,        -         -  -  -  -  52 

Infant's  Prayer,         -         -  •  -  -  52 

Class  Recitations. 

Characteristics  of  the  Christian,  -  -  -  55 

He  that  overcometh,            -  -  -  -  60 

Names  of  Heaven,     -         -  -  -  -  62 

The  Pilgrim's  Prayer,          -  -  -  -  67 

Heavier  the  Cross,     -        -  •  -  -  69 

Our  Strength,           -     '    -  -  .  -  71 

Woman's  Mission,     -        •  •  -  -  •  73 

Humility,       -         -         -  •  -  -  75 

Day  and  Night,        -        -  •  -  -  76 

The  Christian's  Walk,         -  -  -  -  78 

Steadfastness,           -        -  -  -  -  79 

.The  Christian's  God,  -         -  -  -  -  80 

General  Exercises. 

Jesus,  The  Rose  of  Sharon  and  The  Lily  of  the  Valley,  91 

An  Autumnal  Story,  -----  113 

The  Christian's  Reliance,      -  -  •  -  139 


CONTENTS. 


ix 


Rock  of  Ages,  -        -        -        -        -  157 

The  Smitten  Rock,    -----  160 

Bear  the  Cross  —  Wear  the  Crown,  -         -  185 

The  Bible,   197 

Steps  Heavenward,     -         -         -         -         -  217 

Column  of  Beatitudes,  -         -         -         -  227 

The  Birth  of  Christ.    Christmas  Exercise,  -         -  237 

Jesus,  Our  Star.    Christmas  Exercise,       -         -  257 

Crossing  the  River,  -----  269 
The  Golden  City,       -  - 

Poetical  Selections  for  Adult  Scholars. 

Carrying  Home  the  Sheaves,  -         _         -  307 

Ring  the  bell  softly,  -         -         -         -         -  308 

Baby's  gone  to  sleep,  -         -         -         _  309 

Tired  Mothers,   310 

He  doeth  all  things  well,     -         -         -         -  211 

An  Empty  Spool,   312 

The  Leaf's  Mission,   313 

Father,  lead  on,        -         -         -         -         -  315 

The  Angel  of  the  Flowers,   -         -         -         -  316 

The  Statue  in  Clay,   318 

The  Temple  Offerings,         -         -         -         -  319 

Little  Mary's  Wish,   320 

Little  Margery,  -         -         -         -         -  322 

God  giveth  us  this  glorious  world,  -         -         -  323 

The  Unfinished  Prayer,        -         -         -         -  324 

Daisy's  Prayer,         -----  325 

Weighing  the  Baby,  -----  326 

He  leadeth  me,         -----  327 

Now  I  lay  me  down  to  sleep,        -        -        -  328 


SEVEN 
EXERCISES. 


ALPHABET  OF  INTEMPERANCE. 

This  little  exercise  is  especially  adapted 
to  the  Primary  Class.  Prepare  banners  or 
cards,  and  place  upon  them  the  different 
letters  of  the  alphabet,  taking  care  to  have 
the  letters  large  enough  to  be  seen  in  the 
extreme  end  of  the  room.  The  first  scholar 
is  to  come  forward,  display  his  letter  and 
recite  his  verse  ;  then  the  second  proceeds 
in  like  manner,  taking  position  beside  the 
first ;  then  the  third,  and  so  on  until  all 
have  recited  and  all  the  letters  of  the  alpha- 
bet have  been  shown.  The  last  verse  to 
be  recited  together.  Close  the  exercise  by 
singing  "The  Bird's  Song,"  found  in  The 
Golden  Chain,"  page  60. 

THE  EXERCISE. 
A. 

First,— 

A  is  for  ALCOHOL,  the  curse  of  mankind, 

It  poisons  the  body  and  ruins  the  mind  ; 
It's  the  base  of  all  brandies,  of  whiskies  and  gins, 

Of  ciders  and  wines  and  numerous,  sins. 

B. 

Second,  — 
B  is  for  BEER,  in  which  lightly  mixed 

It  hides  its  base  nature  till  the  taste  is  quite  fixed ; 
Then  rum,  gin,  and  brandy  soon  follows  its  track, 
Rob  the  mouth  of  its  food,  with  rags  clothe  the  back. 
13 


14  GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


C. 

Third,  — 

C  is  for  CUSTOMS,  which  bind  us  in  chains, 
Destroying  our  reason,  debasing  our  brains, 

From  which  all  should  break  without  waiting  a  day, 
There's  danger  in  waiting,  there's  death  in  delay. 

I>. 

Fourth, — 

D  is  for  DRUNKARD,  now  bloated  and  vile, 

Once  an  object  of  love,  an  innocent  child, 
He  thought  if  he  sipped,  'twould  do  him  no  harm. 

He  wac  confirmed  as  a  sot,  ere  he  took  the  alarm. 

E. 

Fifth,— 

E  is  for  ENEMY  of  virtue  and  grace, 
Our  worst  one  is  rum,  O  pray  do  not  taste ; 

It  deceives  and  relieves  us  of  money  and  sense. 

Fills  our  faces  with  blotches,  our  garments  with  rents. 

F. 

Sixth,  — 

F  is  for  FOOLS  who  will  take  no  advice, 
But  follow  their  fancies  and  think  themselves  wise. 

For  father  or  mother  they  care  not  a  whit, 
But  start  with  a  leer  on  the  road  to  the  pit. 

G. 

Seventh,  — 
G  is  for  GOODNESS,  which  none  ever  reach. 

Who,  cursed  by  the  cup,  are  silly  of  speech ; 
And  likewise  for  gutter,  the  drunkard's  soft  bed. 

Where,  with  swine  for  companions,  he  oft  lays  his  head. 

H. 

Eighth,  — 
H  is  for  HATRED  of  vice  and  sin. 

Of  beer,  wine  and  cider,  of  brandy  and  gin ; 
And  likewise  for  house,  which  more  might  possess 

If  they'd  banish  the  cup,  their  sole  cause  of  distress. 


ALPHABET  OF  INTEMPERAljfOB. 


I. 

Ninth. 

I  is  for  INN,  where  these  poisons  are  sold, 
O,  shun  it  like  death,  you  can't  be  too  bold 

In  marching  away  from  places  so  vilCj 
We're  near  enough  to  them  when  from  them  a  mile* 

J. 

Tenth,  — 
J  is  for  JUG,  the  toper's  dear  friend, 

It's  filled  full  of  quarrels  and  fights  without  end; 
With  riots  and  murders,  too  many  to  name. 

The  friend  of  disgrace,  the  companion  of  shame. 

K. 

Eleventh,  — 
K  is  for  KING,  we'll  bow  to  no  other 

Than  the  Lord  our  Creator,  our  Friend  and  our  brother, 
We'll  fight  'gainst  the  king  that  befuddles  and  blinds, 

Imprisons  our  bodies,  debases  our  minds. 

L. 

Twelfth,  — 
L  is  for  LOAFER,  either  bloated  or  lean, 

There's  no  object  in  nature  one-quarter  so  mean ; 
He  hangs  round  the  dram  shops,  that  once  in  a  while 

Some  toper  with  "stamps  "  may  ask  him  to  smile. 

M. 

Thirteenth,  — 
M  is  for  MONEY  in  the  dram-seller's  till, 

He  gave  nothing  for  it  but  damnation  distilled; 
Other  children  grow  lean  that  his  may  grow  fat, 

Others  in  rags,  his  in  silk  and  "a"  that. 

N. 

Fourteenth; —  ,  .  , 

N  is  for  NO,  0  never  you  fear 

To  speak  it  up  loud  when  the  tempter  is  near. 
It  has  saved  many  thousands  from  sin  and  from  vice ; 

0  speak  it  when  tempted,  it  will  help  you  to  rise. 


16 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


O. 

Fifteenth,  ^ 

O  is  for  ONSLAUGHT,  which  at  once  should  be  made 
In  right  sober  earnest  on  the  dram-seller's  trade; 

And  the  fight  kept  agoing,  till  not  a  sip  or  a  taste 
Can  e'en  be  secured  in  the  most  fashionable  place. 

P. 

Sixteenth,  — 
P  is  for  POLITICIAN,  who  hath  a  slight  taint 

Of  Pontius  Pilate,  his  great  patron  saint ; 
He  smirks  and  he  smiles,  but,  with  a  spring  and  a  bound. 

He  lands  on  the  side  where  an  ofEce  is  found. 

Seventeenth,  — 
Q  is  for  QUARTERS  where  the  drunkard  doth  sleep, 

With  less  sense  in  his  head  than  in  the  head  of  a  sheep, 
And  likewise  for  quarters  in  his  pockets  not  found, 

Because  'mong  the  dram  shops  he's  squandered  them  round. 

R. 

Eighteenth,  — 
R  is  for  RYE  which,  though  nature  produces, 

Is  oft  basely  perverted  to  Satan's  vile  uses. 
It's  rotted  and  sweated,  distilled  and  bedevilled. 

Till  it's  the  cause  of  base  riots,  of  murders  and  revels. 

S. 

Nineteenth,  — 
S  is  for  sense  which,  speedily  fled, 

At  the  siglit  of  the  cup,  from  the  dram-drinkers  head. 
And  likewise  for  Satan,  the  father  of  liars. 

To  make  sots  of  dear  children  he  basely  aspires. 

T. 

Twentieth, — 
T  is  for  tippler,  he's  got  the  right  start 

To  beggar  his  children,  to  break  his  wife's  heart ; 
Sheriffs,  prisons  and  gallows  await  in  his  track, 

He'll  be  soon  in  their  clutches  if  he  doesn't  turn  back. 


ALPHABET  OF  INTEMPERANCE. 


U. 

Tvventy-first,  — 
U  is  for  UN-CARED-FOR  litttle  children  of  sin, 

Whose  parents  get  drank  again  and  again ; 
And  likewise  for  unclean,  which  fitly  applies 

To  all  who  thus  follow  the  father  of  liars. 

V. 

Twenty-second,  — 
V  is  for  VAGABOND,  the  legitimate  child 

Of  wine  bibb-ling  habits  (that's  drawing  it  mild): 
And  likewise  for  virtue  which  all  may  embrace 

Who'll  drink  nought  but  water  and  seek  for  true  grace* 

W. 

Twenty-third,  — 
W  is  for  WRETCH,  completely  undone 

He  approaches  his  doom,  his  race  is  nigh  run. 
He's  travelled  the  path  of  temptation  so  bright, 

That  ends  in  despair,  in  darkness,  in  night. 

X. 

Twenty-fourth,  — 
X  is  for  EXCUSES  to  taste  of  the  glass, 

We'd  think  they'd  play  out,  but  they  still  seem  to  last; 
First  one  is  weary,  then  sick,  then  cold,  and  then  hot, 

He  tipples  for  all,  till  he's  known  as  a  sot. 

Y. 

Twenty-fifth,— 
y  is  for  YOUTH,  the  time  to  begin 

To  love  virtue  and  truth,  to  fight  against  sin; 
The  time  to  make  choice  of  the  road  we  would  go, 

To  a  heaven  of  joy,  or  a  kingdom  of  woe. 

Z. 

Twenty-sixth,  — 
Z  is  for  ZENITH  of  goodness  and  truth, 

Which  all  may  attain,  who  start  right  in  youth ; 
And  likewise  for  zeal,  which  all  should  possess 

Who  live  to  relieve  from  sin  and  distress. 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


ALL. 

And  now  my  dear  friends  of  liquor  beware, 
That  prove  to  our  race  a  delusion  and  snare, 

But  drink  the  pure  water  which  wisdom  designed 
In  the  counsels  of  heaven,  as  the  drink  for  mankind. 


COME  UNTO  MB. 


19 


COME  UNTO  ME. 

This  exercise  is  taken  from  the  singing 
book :  The  River  of  LifeJ^^  It  is  there 
arranged  with  music  which  will  add  much 
to  its  effectiveness.  Ten  little  banners  or 
cards  are  to  be  prepared  with  letters  on  each 
one  forming  when  all  exhibited  —  Come  un- 
to me,  —  the  banners  or  cards  being  exposed 
to  view  as  each  one  recites  his  verse. 

ALL  RECITE. 

How  dear  is  the  Saviour,  how  sacred  his  charms, 
In  his  love  and  his  kindness  displayed, 
When  he  took  little  children  up  into  his  arms, 
Kindly  blessing  them  tenderly  said  : 
"  O  dear  little  children,  O,  come  unto  me, 
Far  and  wide  let  the  tidings  be  given, 
And  never  forbid  them,  whoever  they  be. 
For  of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  heaven.** 

C. 

1st.  Child,— 

What  he  said  that  yoxx  may  see, 
We  will  spell  it  word  b}^  word ; 
I  have  brought  the  letter  C, 
Here  it  is  upon  my  card. 


20 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


O. 

2nd  Child,  ^ 

Next  in  order  I  will  show 
What  the  second  letter  is, 
And  present  the  solemn  O, 
Often  used  in  prayer  and  praise. 

M. 

3rd  Child,— 

And  my  aid  I  bring  to  them, 
Helping  in  the  good  design  ; 
Here  behold  the  letter  M, 
Takes  its  place  along  the  line. 

E. 

4th  Child  — 

Others  have  preceded  me, 

And  their  letters  are  but  dumb  ; 

But  I  bring  the  letter  E, 

And  one  word  is  written  :  Come. 

V. 

Sth  Child,— 

There  is  yet  a  work  to  do, 

Ere  the  precious  words  are  known  ; 

And  I  bring  the  letter  U, 

As  you  see  it,  plainly  shown, 

N. 

eth  Child,— 

Cheerfully,  I  join  the  train, 
"Willing  to  enact  a  part : 
And  display  the  letter  IT, 
On  the  card  above  my  heart. 

T. 

7th  Child,— 

And  I  come,  that  you  may  see, 
As  the  growing  words  appear, 
That  we  need  the  letter  T, 
To  unfold  and  make  them  clear. 


COME  UNTO  ME. 
O. 

8tli  Child,- 

I  suppose  you  almost  know, 
What  should  next  appear  to  view; 
And  if  I  display  an  O, 
You  will  whisper  —  Unto, 

M. 

9th  Child,  — 

Yet  the  words  we  would  proclaim 
Are  not  all  before  you  shown. 
And  we  need  the  letter  M, 
Or  they  must  remain  unknown. 

E 

10th  Child,— 

Every  one  preceding  me, 
Full  a  lettered  card  displays, 
But  it  takes  the  letter  E, 
To  complete  the  spoken  phrase. 

ALL. 

We  thank  our  Redeemer  for  all  his  kind  love, 

Which  he  gave  our  young  spirits  to  bless  ; 

For  the  words  that  he  st)ake,  'ere  ascending  above, 

To  the  mansions  of  glory  and  rest, 

We'll  always  remember  the  words  of  the  text, 

Which  we  now  in  your  presence  have  given. 

For  'twas  our  dear  Saviour  said,  "  Come  unto  me, 

For  of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  heaven.'* 


ALL  FOR  JESUS. 


This  little  exercise  will  be  found  to  be 
very  interesting  if  recited  in  a  clear  distinct 
manner.  The  manner  of  recitation  is  the 
same  as  given  in  previous  exercises. 

A. 

1st  Scholar,  — 

The  alphabet  begins  with  A, 

So,  I'm  the  first  my  speech  to  say. 

li. 

2nd  Scholar,  — 

We'll  pass  right  on,  and  rest  at  L, 

For  we've  something  very  sweet  to  spelL 

L. 

3rd  Scholar,  — 

We'll  use  again  the  letter  X, 
The  word  it  ends  you  all  see  well. 

F. 

4th  Scholar,  — 

We  now  bring  out  this  pretty 

And  name  it  loud,  lest  some  be  deaf; 

O. 

5th  Scholar, — 

I'll  hold  up  high  this  great  round  Oy 
While  I  stand  in  the  middle  of  the  row. 

R. 

6th  Scholar,  — 

^  I  hope  you  all  see  my  letter  i?. 

Those  who  are  near,  and  those  who  are  far. 
22 


ALL  FOB  JESUS. 


23 


J. 

7th  Scholar,  — 

The  next  word  begins  with  J", 
But  what  it  is  I'll  not  now  say, 

E. 

8th  Scholar,— 

Next  to  J,  I'll  place  my  E 

In  such  a  way  that  all  may  see. 

S. 

9th  Scholar,— 

Pray  don*t  forget  my  crooked  /ST, 
I'm  sure  you  would  not  wish  it  less. 

U. 

10th  Scholar,  — 

Now,  at  last,  we  have  come  to  27, 
Which  shows  that  we  are  almost  through. 

S. 

11th  Scholar,— 

If  you  ask  if  the  last  letter  is 

I'll  speak  out  loud  and  answer  —  Yes. 


ALL  RECITE  SLOWLY: 

"All  for  Jesus,"  thus  we  spell, 
A  sweeter  motto  none  can  tell. 
Trouble  and  fear  it  will  dispell. 
Sickness  and  sorrow  it  will  quell. 
With  joy  and  peace  our  bosoms  swell, 
For  we  hope  at  last  with  Him  to  dwell. 


SING  :  —  ''All  for  Jesus."  Winnowed 
Symns^  p.  63. 


LITTLE  PILGRIMS. 


All  the  class  recite  :  —  1st.  These  all  died 
in  faith,  not  having  received  the  promises, 
but  having  seen  them  afar  off,  and  were  per- 
suaded of  them^  and  embraced  them^  and 
confessed  that  they  were  strangers  and  pil- 
grims on  the  earth. 

14  For  they  that  say  such  things,  declare 
plainly  that  they  seek  a  country. 

15  And  truly  if  they  had  been  mindful 
of  that  country^  from  Avhence  they  came  out, 
they  might  have  had  opportunity  to  have 
returned : 

16  But  now  they  desire  a  better  coun- 
try, that  is,  a  heavenly:  wherefore  God  is 
not  ashamed  to  be  called  their  God :  for  he 
hath  prepared  for  them  a  city.  Heb.  ii :  13, 
16. 

1st  Scholar  recites : 

Little  pilgrims  zionward, 

Each  one  entering  into  rest, 
In  the  kingdom  of  your  Lord,, 

In  the  mansions  of  the  blest. 

There  to  welcome,  Jesus  waits. 
Gives  the  crowns  his  followers  win, 

Lift  your  heads,  ye  golden  gates. 
Let  the  little  pilgrims  in. 

24 


LITTLE  PILGRIMS. 


25 


2nd  Scholar — A  Girl, 

Who  are  they  whose  little  feet, 

Pacing  life's  dark  journey  through, 
Now  have  reached  that  heavenly  seat. 

They  had  ever  kept  in  view? 

3rd  Scholar  — A  Boy, 

I,  from  Greenland's  frozen  land. 

4th  Scholar  —  A  Boy. 

I,  from  India's  sultry  plain. 

5th  Scholar — A  Boy. 

I,  from  Afric's  barren  sand. 

6th  Scholar  — A  Boy. 

I,  from  islands  of  the  main. 

3rd,  4th,  5th,  and  6th  Scholars  recite  in  concert : 
All  our  earthly  journeys  past. 

Every  tear  and  pain  gone  by,- 
Here  together  met  at  last. 

At  the  portal  of  the  sky. 

Each  the  welcome  "  Come  "  awaits, 

Conqu'rors  over  sin  and  death, 
Lift  your  heads,  ye  golden  gates, 

Let  the  little  pilgrims  in. 

All  the  class  recite  :  —  Eye  hath  not  seen, 
nor  ear  heard,  neither  have  entered  into  the 
heart  of  man,  the  things  which  God  hath 
prepared  for  them  that  love  him  —  1  Cor. 
2:  9. 


All  the  class  sing:  —  Royal  Diadem, 
page  71. 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


We  are  little  pilgrims, 
Hoping,  hoping, 
We  are  little  pilgrims, 
Hoping  on 

For  a  country  better  far, 

Where  our  crown  and  kingdom  are^ 

We  are  little  pilgrims, 

Hoping  on. 

We  are  little  soldiers. 
Fighting,  fighting, 
We  are  little  soldiers. 
Fighting  on. 

Warring  'gainst  the  powers  of  sin. 
Foes  without  and  foes  within, 
We  are  little  soldiers, 
Fighting  on. 


WHAT  SAYS  THE  CLOCK? 


Note.  —  This  exercise  is  designed  for  thir- 
teen scholars.  The  first  scholar  recites  the 
recitation,  The  Clock,  and  the  others  follow 
in  their  regular  order,  all  singing  the  song  at 
the  close  of  the  recitations. 

RECITATION. 


THE  CLOCK. 


First, —     "  See  the  neat  oaken  clock  ! 

In  the  centre  it  stands, 
And  it  points  at  the  time 
With  its  two  pretty  hands. 

The  one  shows  the  minutes, 

The  other  the  hour, 
As  you  often  may  see 

In  a  church  or  high  tower. 

The  pendulum  swinging 
Inside  the  clock  case, 

Sends  the  two  pretty  hands 
Round  its  neat  little  face. 

There's  a  nice  little  bell, 

Which  the  hammer  does  knock; 

And  when  you  hear  that, 

You  may  tell  what's  o'clock." 


Second,  — 

What  says  the  clock  when  it  strikes  One  t 
"Watch!  "  says  the  clock,  "oh,  watch,  little  one." 
27 


28 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Third,— 

What  says  the  clock  when  it  strikes  Two  t 
"  Love  God,  little  darling,  for  God  loves  you.'* 

Fourth,— 

Tell  me  now  softly,  what  it  whispers  at  Three  t 
"Suffer  little  children  to  come  unto  me.'* 

Fifth,— 

Then  come,  gentle  lambs,  come  and  wander  no  more : 
*Tis  the  Good  Shepherd  that  calls  thee  at  Four. 

Sixth,  — 

And  oh,  let  your  young  hearts  with  gladness  revive, 
When  it  echoes  so  swiftly,  God  bless  thee  at  Five, 

Seventh,  — 

And  remember  at  Six,  with  the  fading  of  day, 
That  your  life  is  a  vapor  that  passeth  away. 

Eighth,  — 

What  says  the  clock  when  it  strikes  Seven? 
"Of  such  is  the  kingdom,  the  kingdom  of  heaven." 

Ninth,— 

And  what  says  the  clock  when  it  strikes  Eight? 
"  Strive  ye  all  to  enter  in  at  the  Beautiful  Gate." 

Tenth,— 

And  louder,  still  louder,  it  calls  thee  at  Nine^ 
"  Give  me,  my  son,  that  proud  heart  of  thine." 

Eleventh,  — 
Then  sweet  be  your  voices  responsive  at  Ten^ 
"  Hosanna  in  the  highest !  Hosanna !  Amen  I " 

Twelfth,— 
And  loud  let  the  chorus  sing  on  till  Eleven, 
"Praise  be  to  the  Father,  the  Father  in  heaven." 

Thirteenth,  — 

Till  the  deep  stroke  of  midnight  the  watchword  shall  bring, 
Lo,  these  are  my  jewels,  I  will  gather  them  in. 


FLORAL  EXERCISE. 


THE  FLOWER  GARDEN. 

Directions.  Five  little  girls  come  out, 
form  in  line,  the  middle  one  holding  a  small 
white  banner  trimmed  with  flowers. 

FIRST  GIKL. 

I'm  a  blue  violet,  modest  and  meek, 
Down  in  the  lowlands  my  home  I  seek  ; 
Down  where  the  meadows  are  green  and  fair, 
Sweet  with  the  breath  of  the  morning  air. 

SECOND  GIRL. 

I'm  a  pink  daisy,  and  sweet  I  grow, 

Out  of  the  cold  earth,  under  the  snow; 

Lifting  my  head  with  a  smile  I  sing, 

"  0,  welcome  thee  back,  thou  beautiful  spring.** 

THIRD  GIRL. 

I'm  a  sweet  rose  bud  just  ready  to  bloom, 
Filling  the  air  with  my  rich  perfume : 
Dews  in  the  morning,  like  stars  in  the  sky, 
Welcome,  oh,  welcome,  for  summer  is  nigh. 

FOURTH  GIRL. 

I'm  a  sweet  lily,  with  fairy  bell, 
Blooming  alone  in  a  quiet  dell. 
Where  the  brook  warbles  its  silvery  song, 
Over  and  over  the  whole  day  long. 


30 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


ALL  JOIN  IN  SINGING :  —  Air —  "  Rosalie,  the  Prairie  Flower.'^ 

We  are  little  children, 

Like  the  flowers  that  grow 
By  the  silvery  fountains, 

Where  they  flow, 
Like  the  buds  and  blossoms, 

Smiling  all  the  day. 
We  would  be  as  sweet  as  they. 
Pure  as  a  lil}",  striving  to  be, 
Seeking  our  Saviour,  happy  are  we  t 
Cheering  all  that  see  us. 
And  with  winning  way  (all  point  up) 
Pointing  to  the  realms  of  day. 


GOD'S  WORKS. 


FIRST. 

There's  not  tints  that  paints  the  rose, 
Or  decks  the  lily  fair, 
Or  streaks  the  humblest  flower  that  blows, 
But  God  has  placed  it  there. 

SECOND. 

At  early  dawn  there's  not  a  gale, 
Across  the  landscape  driven, 
And  not  a  breeze  that  sweeps  the  vale| 
But  is  not  sent  by  heaven. 

THIRD. 

There's  not  of  grass  a  single  blade, 
Or  leaf  of  loveliest  green. 
Where  heavenly  skill  is  not  displayed. 
And  heavenly  wisdom  seen. 

FOURTH. 

There's  not  a  tempest  dark  and  drear, 
Or  storm  that  rends  the  air. 
Or  blast  that  sweeps  the  ocean's  bed. 
But  God's  own  voice  is  there. 

FIFTH. 

There's  not  a  star  whose  twinkling  light, 
Shines  on  the  distant  earth, 
And  cheers  the  silent  gloom  of  night, 
But  mercy  gave  it  birth. 

SIXTH. 

There's  not  a  cloud  whose  dews  distil. 
Upon  the  parched  clod, 
And  clothe  with  verdure  hill  and  vale, 
That  is  not  sent  by  God. 
31 


GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


SEVENTH. 

There's  not  a  leaf  within  the  bower; 
There's  not  a  bird  upon  the  tree  ; 
There's  not  a  dewdrop  on  the  flower; 
But  bears  the  impress  Lord  of  thee. 

EIGHT. 

Thy  hand  the  varied  leaf  designed, 
And  gave  the  bird  its  thrilling  tones ; 
Thy  power  the  dewdrop' s  tints  combined, 
Till  like  the  diamond's  blaze  they  shone. 

KINTH. 

Yes,  dewdrops,  leaves,  and  birds,  and  all, 
The  smallest  like  the  greatest  things, 
The  sea's  vast  space,  the  earth's  wide  ball, 
Alike  proclaim  thee  king  of  kings. 

TENTH. 

There's  not  a  place  in  earth's  vast  round, 
In  ocean's  deep  or  air, 
Where  skill  and  wisdom  are  not  seen. 
For  God  is  everywhere. 

ALL. 

Around,  beneath,  below,  above, 
Wherever  space  extends ; 
There  God  displays  his  boundless  love, 
And  power  and  mercy  blends. 

ELEVENTH. 

God  made  the  sky  that  looks  so  blue, 
He  made  the  grass  so  green ; 
He  made  the  flowers  that  smell  so  sweet, 
In  pretty  colors  seen. 

TWELFTH. 

God  made  the  sun  that  shines  so  bright, 
And  gladdens  all  we  see  ; 
It  comes  to  give  us  heat  and  light, 
How  thankful  should  we  be. 


god's  "WOEKS. 


33 


THIRTEENTH. 

God  made  the  pretty  bird  to  fly, 
How  sweetly  has  she  sung ; 
And  though  she  flies  so  very  high, 
She'll  not  forget  her  young. 

FOURTEENTH. 

God  made  the  water  for  my  drink, 
He  made  the  fish  to  swim ; 
He  made  the  tree  to  bear  nice  fruit, 
O,  how  should  I  love  him. 

ALL. 

Then,  wake,  our  souls,  and  sing  his  name. 
And  all  his  praise  rehearse ; 
Who  spread  abroad  earth  s  glorious  frame, 
And  made  the  universe. 


All  sma  :  —  Children's  Praise.  River  of 
Life,  p.  8T. 


SELECTIONS  FOR 
RECITATIONS. 


Note.  These  "  Selections  for  Primary 
Class  Recitations  "  are  almost  wholly  com- 
posed of  poems  with  words  of  one  syllable, 
and  in  very  simple  language  ;  as  such  we 
think  they  will  prove  to  be  welcome  to  the 
Primary  Class  teacher. 


BUSY  HANDS  AND  FEET 

Little  white  hands  have  never 
Known  what  it  is  to  work. 

Yet  they  are  busy  ever, 
With  never  a  wish  to  shirk. 

Never  a  moment  idle, 
Never  at  all  o'ertasked; 

Whatever  mamma  calls  for, 
Bringing  as  soon  as  asked. 

Bringing  the  slippers  for  papa, 
And  with  them  an  evening  kiss ; 

Waiting  to  have  his  blessing 
Fill  her  with  happiness. 

Placing  a  chair  for  mamma, 
Without  being  asked  at  all ; 

Soothing  the  fretting  baby, 
Shaking  her  rattle  small. 

Playing  when  papa's  reading, 

Still  as  a  little  mouse ; 
Never  with  clash  and  clatter 

Righting  her  little  house, 

37 


S8 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Never  intrusive,  only 

Ready  to  come  and  go 
As  papa  or  mamma  wishes, 

Little  face  all  aglow. 

You  may  talk  of  your  household  jewelsi 

But  ours  is  the  richest  yet; 
0,  what  a  priceless  treasure 

We  have  in  our  little  pet! 

Ready  at  every  one*s  bidding. 
With  fingers  so  nimble  and  neat ; 

Kever  such  dutiful  servants 
At  these  little  hands  and  feet. 


god's  blessing. 


39 


GOD'S  BLESSING. 

FOR  FIVE  LITTLE  CHILDREN, 
1st  child. 

God  bless  my  two  little  feet,  (pointing  to  the  feet), 

So  they  may  never  stray, 
But  swiftly  and  joyfully  tread 
In  the  strait  and  narrow  way. 

2nd  child. 

God  bless  my  two  little  hands  (holding  them  up); 

Ne'er  may  they  strike  or  destroy; 
But  quick  be,  and  willing  alway, 

For  kind  and  loving  employ. 

3rd  child. 

God  bless  my  two  little  eyes  (pointing  to  the  eyes) ; 

May  they  be  open  to  see 
All  my  dear  father  in  heaven 

Has  done  for  poor  little  me. 

4th  child. 

God  bless  my  two  little  ears  (pointing  to  the  ears); 

Ready  may  they  be  to  hear, 
The  voice  of  my  Saviour,  who  wipes 

Away  the  penitent  tear 

5th  child. 

God  bless  my  two  little  lips  (laying  the  hand  on  the  lips) 

Let  sweet  words  of  prayer  and  praise, 
Let  pity  and  kindness  and  love, 

Dwell  on  them  the  rest  of  my  days. 


40  GATHEEBD  SHEAVES. 


WHAT  CAN  WE  DO  FOR  JESUS? 

What  can  we  do  for  Jesus, 

This  little  Sabbath  Band? 
How  can  we  aid  in  spreading 

The  gospel  through  the  land  ? 

How  can  we  pull  down  error, 

How  root  out  sin  and  vice, 
When  they  are  all  so  mighty, 

So  low  and  weak  our  voice  ? 

I  know  I  can  love  Jesus, 
*  And  this  I  try  to  do ; 
And  I  can  tell  to  others 
That  my  heart  is  made  anew. 

I  can't  do  much  for  Jesus, 
But  this  one  thing  I'll  do, — 

I'll  try  and  not  displease  him, 
But  seek  his  will  to  know. 

HOW  TO  BE  GOOD. 

FOR  THREE  CHILDREN. 

All.         We  children  three,  a  happy  band. 

Before  our  friends  assembled  stand, 
To  thank  our  Father  for  this  sight. 
And  for  the  pleasant  Sabbath  light. 

First.        I  am  the  oldest,  as  you  see. 
And  I  must  an  example  be ; 
Must  strive  to  do  the  things  I'm  told, 
And  for  the  truth  be  firm  and  bold. 


HOW  TO  BE  GOOD. 


41 


In  patience  I  must  bear  with  brother, 

Teach  him  to  love  and  care  for  mother ; 

Be  kind  to  little  sister  here, 

And  love  and  pray  for  father  dear. 

And  I  must  pray  to  Jesus,  too, 

To  cleanse  my  heart  and  make  it  new, 

That  I  may  love  him  while  I  live 

And  when  I  die  a  crown  receive. 

Second.     I'm  not  as  old  as  brother  yet, 

But  I  have  heard,  and  don't  forget, 
That  Jesus  died  for  such  as  I, 
That  we  might  not  forever  die. 
And  if  I  love  and  serve  him  here 
With  holy  love  and  holy  fear. 
Then  I  shall  dwell  in  heaven  above. 
Where  all  is  peace,  and  joy,  and  love. 

Third.       I  am  a  very  little  child. 

And  sometimes  I  am  very  wild ; 
And  do  not  do  the  things  I'm  taught, 
Nor  love  the  Saviour  as  I  ought. 
But  I  will  ask  him,  when  I  pray, 
To  take  my  naughty  thoughts  away, 
And  make  me  loving,  good,  and  mild, 
And  fit  to  be  his  holy  child. 

All.         Father  in  heaven,  our  hearts  keep  pure, 
Preserve  us  from  all  sin ; 
And  save  us  all  in  heaven  above 
For  Jesus'  sake.  Amen. 


GATHEBED  SHEAVES. 


THE  BROOK. 

The  brook  upon  its  way- 
Wider  and  wider  grows ; 

Like  a  song  it  sounds  along, 
All  the  way  it  goes. 

Sometimes  clear  as  glass 

Glides  the  water  by ; 
As  we  look  upon  the  brook, 

There  we  see  the  sky. 

Thus  my  soul  would  be 

Growing  every  day; 
Thus  would  raise  a  song  of  praise 

Ever  on  the  way. 

Like  the  water  pure, 

Purified  from  sin ; 
Like  the  brook,  when  deep  I  look, 

Heaven  be  found  within. 

THE  MORNING  STAR. 

f 

I  once  beheld  a  little  star, 

The  only  one  that  shone  ; 
And  like  a  small,  bright  jewel  there 

It  twinkled  all  alone. 

'Twas  Yenus,  in  its  small,  bright  sphere, 

The  little  light  o'erspread; 
For  still  it  lingered  in  the  sk}^. 

When  all  the  rest  had  fled. 

Ah,  this  reminds  me  of  the  star 
That  once  o'er  Bethlehem  staid, 

To  guide  the  wise  men  to  the  place 
Where  our  blest  Saviour  laid. 


THE  GREAT  TEACHEK.  43 


THE  GREAT  TEACHER. 

I  asked  the  joyous  bird,  who  taught  him  how  to  fly, 

And  sing  such  pretty  songs  in  the  bright  blue  sky  ; 

He  told  me  it  was  God  who  had  given  him  his  wings, 

And  taught  him  how  to  build  his  nest,  as  well  as  how  to  sing. 

I  asked  the  lovely  little  flower  who  gave  her  perfume  sweet, 
And  dressed  her  in  her  velvet  coat,  so  beautiful  and  neat ; 
She  told  me  it  was  God  who  had  clothed  her  with  such  care. 
And  taught  her  how  to  breathe  such  sweets  upon  the  evening 
air. 

I  asked  the  little  twinkling  star  who  taught  him  how  to  shine, 
And  run  with  such  a  steady  pace  along  his  proper  line ; 
He  told  me  it  was  God  who  bade  him  shine  so  bright, 
And  trim  his  little  tiny  lamp  to  cheer  the  winter  night. 

Since  all  things,  then,  look  up  to  God  —  the  flower,  the  star,  the 
bird,  — 

And  ill  obey  his  holy  laws,  and  listen  to  his  holy  word, 

I,  too,  although  a  child,  will  try  his  bidding  to  obey. 

That  I  may  learn  to  please  Him,  too,  and  serve  as  well  as  they. 


THE  KIND  ANGEL. 

There  is  an  angel  who  from  Heaven  comes, 

To  bless  and  comfort  all  the  little  ones. 

Guess  who  it  is,  so  good  and  mild, 

And  gentle  to  each  little  child. 

m  tell  thee:  It  came  from  God  above. 

And  the  spirit's  name  is :  "Mother's  Love." 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


SAMUEL. 

Once  in  the  silence  of  the  night, 
The  lamp  of  God  was  clear  and  bright ; 
And  there,  by  holy  angels  kept, 
Samuel,  the  child,  serenely  slept. 

An  unknown  voice  the  stillness  broke : 
"  Samuel,"  it  called,  and  thrice  it  spoke: 
He  rose :  he  asked ;  "  Whence  came  the  word? 
"  From  Eli  ?  "  —  No ;  it  was  the  Lord. 

Thus  early  called  to  serve  his  God,  • 
The  paths  of  righteousness  he  trod ; 
Prophetic  visions  filled  his  breast. 
And  Israel,  taught  by  him,  was  blest. 

IMPORTANCE  OF  THE  BIBLE. 

How  shall  the  young  secure  their  hearts, 
And  guard  their  lives  from  sin  ? 

Thy  word  the  choicest  rules  imparts 
To  keep  the  conscience  clean. 

'Tis  like  the  sun  a  heavenly  light, 

That  guides  us  all  the  day ; 
And,  through  the  dangers  of  the  night, 

A  lamp  to  lead  our  way. 

Thy  precepts  makes  us  truly  wise : 

We  hate  the  sinner's  road ; 
We  hate  our  own  vain  thoughts  that  rise, 

But  love  thy  law,  0,  God. 

Thy  truths  are  everlasting  truths ; 

How  pure  is  every  page  ; 
That  holy  book  shall  guide  our  youth ; 

And  well  support  our  age. 


THE  FKOZEH  STAK. 


45 


THE  FROZEN  STAR. 

A  snow-flake  left  its  lofty  home, 

In  fleecy  clouds  afar, 
And  gently  dropped  upon  the  ground, 

A  perfect  little  star. 

Its  tiny  points  grew  thin  at  first, 

Then  melted  quite  away ; 
And  soon  a  sullied,  shapeless  thing, 

The  hapless  snow-flake  lay. 

The  soul  is  like  that  starry  flake, 

A  thing  of  heavenly  birth  ; 
Its  holy  beauties  fade  away 

Beneath  the  touch  of  earth. 

EVENING  HYMN. 

Father,  heavenly  Father,  hear  me ; 

Bless  thy  little  lambs  to-night ; 
Through  the  darkness  be  thou  near  me, 

Watch  my  sleep  till  morning  light. 

All  this  day  thy  hand  has  led  me, 

And  I  thank  thee  for  thy  care ; 
Thou  hast  clothed  me,  warmed,  and  fed  me, 

Listen  to  my  evening  prayer. 

Let  my  sins  be  all  forgiven, 

Bless  the  friends  I  love  so  well ; 
Take  me,  when  I  die,  to  Heaven, 

Happy  there  with  thee  to  dwell. 

OUR  SAVIOUR'S  GOLDEN  RULE. 

Be  you  to  others  kind  and  true, 
As  you'd  have  others  be  to  you; 
And  neither  do  nor  say  to  men 
Whate'er  you  would  not  take  again. 


GATHEBED  SHEAVES. 


THE  ANGEL  GUARD. 

A  little  girl  knelt  down  to  pray, 
As  she  was  used  to  do, 
"  God  guard  my  sister  every  day. 
And  baby  brother  too." 

God  heard  in  heaven  the  simple  prayer, 

And  bade  an  angel  fly. 
To  take  the  children  in  his  care, 

And  every  want  supply. 

They  saw  him  not ;  but  he  was  there, 
Their  strong  and  glorious  friend, 
Still  hovering  o'er  them  everywhere, 
To  succor  and  defend. 

From  morn  till  eve  his  mighty  arm 

Averted  every  ill ; 
From  eve  till  mom,  a  child  from  harm. 

His  wing  was  o'er  them  still. 

THE  SEASONS. 

First  Child,  (representing  Spring), 

Hark,  the  little  birds  are  singing ; 

Winter's  gone,  and  summer's  near; 
See,  the  tender  grass  is  springing. 
And  the  flowers  will  soon  be  here. 

Who  made  the  winter  and  the  spring? 

Who  painted  all  the  flowers  ? 
Who  taught  the  little  birds  to  sing, 

And  made  these  hearts  of  ours  ? 

0,  'tis  God,  how  good  he  is : 
He  does  every  blessing  give ; 

All  this  happy  world  is  his. 
Let  us  love  him  while  we  live. 


THE  SEASONS. 


Second  Child,  (representing  Summer), 

'Tis  summer,  glorious  summer; 

Behold  the  glad  green  earth, 
How  from  her  bosom 

The  herb  and  flower  spring  forth ; 
These  are  her  rich  thanksgivings ; 

The  incense  floats  above ; 
Father,  what  may  we  offer  ? 

Thy  chosen  flower  is  love. 

Third  Child,  (representing  Autumn), 

Autumn  has  come  so  bare  and  gray, 

The  woods  are  brown  and  red, 
The  flowers  all  have  passed  away 
The  forest  leaves  are  dead. 

The  little  birds  at  morning  dawn, 
Clothed  in  warm  coats  of  feather, 

Conclude  that  they  away  will  roam 
To  seek  for  milder  weather. 

The  robin  gives  his  last  sweet  strain, 
His  mate  responding,  follows ; 

And  then  awav  they  lead  the  train 
Of  blue  birds,  wrens,  and  swallows. 

Fourth  Child,  representing  Winter). 

Stem  winter  throws  his  icy  chains 

Encircling  nature  round ; 
How  bleak,  how  comfortless,  the  plains, 
Late  with  gay  verdure  crowned ! 

The  sun  withholds  his  vital  beams. 
And  light  and  warmth  depart ; 

And  drooping,  lifeless  nature  seems 
An  emblem  of  my  heart. 

Return,  0  blissful  sun,  and  bring 

Thy  soul-reviving  ray ; 
This  mental  winter  shall  be  spring, 

This  darkness  cheerful  day. 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


GENERAL  WASHINGTON. 

When  General  Washington  was  young, 

About  as  big  as  I, 
He  never  would  permit  his  tongue 

To  tell  a  wilful  lie. 

Once  when  he  cut  his  father's  tree, 

He  owned  it  to  his  face ; 
And  then  his  father  ardently 
Clasped  him  in  his  embrace. 

He  told  his  son  it  pleased  him  more, 

To  find  him  own  the  truth 
Than  if  his  trees  were  bending  o'er. 

With  rich  and  golden  fruit. 

Then  like  this  good  and  noble  youth. 

Whose  virtues  ever  shone  ; 
I'll  seek  the  paths  of  love  and  truth, 

And  all  my  faults  will  own. 

GOING  TO  BED. 

Down  upon  my  pillow  warm, 

I  now  lay  my  little  head  ; 
And  the  rain,  and  wind,  and  storm. 

Cannot  come  too  nigh  my  bed. 

Many  little  children  poor 

Have  not  anywhere  to  go ; 
And  sad  hardships  they  endure. 

Such  as  I  did  never  know. 
And  I'll  lift  my  heart  in  prayer 

To  the  God  that  dwells  above ; 
Thank  him  for  his  watch  and  care, 

And  for  all  his  tender  love. 


JUNE  EOSBS. 


JUNE  ROSES. 

I  plucked  a  tiny  rosebud, 
And  wore  it  through  the  day, 
Its  gentle  fragrance  cheered  me 
In  all  my  busy  way. 

As  night  came  on  it  withered, 
And  so  I  laid  it  by, 
Although  I  felt  unwilling 
To  have  it  droop  and  die. 

O  pleasant  month  of  roses, 
Why  pass  so  soon  away  ? 
Thy  blossoms  are  so  lovely, 
Why  not  forever  stay  ? 

But  ah !  I  must  not  question 
The  great  Creator's  plan; 
His  wise^  eternal  purpose 
He  justly  hides  from  man. 

And  yet  to  my  poor  reason 
There  comes  this  question  plain 
K  life  were  all  June  roses. 
What  good  would  it  attain  ? 


DO  RIGHT. 

I  love  to  do  right, 
And  I  love  the  truth  ; 
And  I'll  always  love  them, 
While  in  my  youth. 

Aed  when  I  grow  old. 
And  when  I  grow  gray, 
I  will  love  them  still, 
Depart  who  may. 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


THE  FLOWERS. 

How  lovely  are  the  flowers, 

That  in  the  valley  smile ; 
They  seem  like  forms  of  angels. 

Pure,  and  free  from  guile. 

But  one  thing  mars  their  beauty, 

It  does  not  always  last; 
They  droop,  and  fade,  and  wither, 

Long  e'er  the  summer's  past. 

And  I  am  like  the  flower 

That  blooms  in  fragrant  May ; 

Wlien  daj^s  of  sickness  find  me, 
Then  I  shall  fade  away. 

Then  let  me  seek  the  beauty 
That  God  alone  can  give  ; 

For  when  this  life  is  over, 
That  will  forever  live. 

IHE  CHILD  IN  HEAVEN. 

A  little  child  who  loves  to  pray. 

And  read  his  Bible  too, 
Shall  rise  above  the  sky  one  day. 

And  sing  as  angels  do. 
Shall  live  in  heaven  that  world  above 
Where  all  is  joy,  and  peace,  and  love. 

Look  up,  dear  children,  see  that  star, 
Which  shines  so  brightly  there  ; 

But  you  shall  brighter  shine  by  far, 
When  in  that  world  so  fair; 

A  harp  of  gold  you  each  shall  have, 

And  sing  the  power  of  Christ  to  save. 


LITTLE  THINGS. 


LITTLE  THINGS. 

Very  little  things  are  we, 
Oh  how  mild  we  all  should  be ; 
Never  quarrel,  never  fight. 
That  would  be  a  shocking  sight. 

Just  like  pretty  little  lambs. 
Softly  skipping  by  their  dams ; 
We'll  be  gentle  all  the  da}^, 
Love  to  learn  as  well  as  play. 


SATURDAY  NIGHT. 

How  pleasant  is  Saturday  night, 
When  I've  tried  all  the  week  to  be  good, 

Not  spoken  a  word  that  was  bad, 
And  obliged  ever}^  one  that  I  could. 

To-morrow  the  sweet  Sabbath  comes, 
Which  our  merciful  father  has  given, 

That  we  may  have  rest  from  our  work. 
And  prepare  for  the  Sabbath  of  heaven. 


FLOWERS. 

The  flowers  are  blooming  everj'where, 

On  every  hill  and  dell : 
And  oh,  how  beautiful  they  are, 

How  sweetly  too  they  smell. 

The  little  birds,  they  spring  along 
And  look  so  glad  and  gay ; 

I  love  to  hear  their  pleasant  song, 
I  feel  as  glad  as  they. 


GAXHEEED  SHEAVES. 


WHERE  IS  GOD? 

In  the  sun,  the  moon,  and  sky 
On  the  mountains  wild  and  high, 
In  the  thunder,  in  the  rain, 
In  the  grove,  the  wood,  the  plain, 
In  the  little  birds  that  sing ; 
God  is  seen  in  everything. 


EVENING  PRAYER. 

The  sun  has  gone  to  rest, 
The  bee  forsakes  the  flower ; 

The  young  bird  slumbers  in  its  nest, 
Within  the  leafy  bower. 

Where  have  I  been  this  day  ? 

Into  what  folly  run  ? 
Forgive  me.  Father,  when  I  pray, 

Through  Jesus  Christ  thy  son. 


INFANT'S  PRAYER. 

Jesus,  Saviour,  Son  of  God, 
Who  for  me  life's  pathway  trod, 
"Who  for  me  became  a  child, 
Make  me  humble,  meek  and  mild. 

I,  thy  little  lamb  would  be; 
Jesus,  I  would  follow  thee  ; 
Samuel  was  thy  child  of  old, 
Take  me,  too,  within  thy  fold. 


CLASS  ME€ITAf  lOm 


CHARACTERISTICS   OF  THE 
CHRISTIAN. 

ALPHABETICALLY  ARRANGED. 
A. 

The  Christian  should  be  Attentive. 

To  him  the  porter  openeth,  and  the  sheep  hear  his  voice,  and 
he  calleth  his  own  sheep  by  name,  and  leadeth  them  out. 

And  when  he  putteth  forth  his  own  sheep,  he  goeth  before 
them,  and  the  sheep  follow  him:  for  they  know  his  voice. — 
John  10:  3,  4. 

B. 

The  Christian  should  be  Blameless. 

That  ye  may  be  blameless  and  harmless,  the  sons  of  God, 
without  rebuke,  in  the  midst  of  a  crooked  and  perverse  nation, 
among  whom  ye  shine  as  lights  in  the  world. — ^Phil.  2: 15. 

C. 

The  Christian  should  be  Contrite. 

For  thus  saith  the  high  and  lofty  One  that  inhabiteth  eternity, 
whose  name  is  Holy  ;  I  dwell  in  the  high  and  holy  place,  with 
him  also  that  is  of  a  contrite  and  humble  spirit,  to  revive  the  spirit 
of  the  humble,  and  to  revive  the  heart  of  the  contrite  ones. — 
Isa.  57:15. 

55 


56 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


The  Christian  should  be  Devout. 

A  devout  man,  according  to  the  law,  having  a  good  report  of 
all  the  Jews.— Acts  22: 12. 

E. 

The  Christian  should  be  Earnest. 

Therefore  we  ought  to  give  the  more  earnest  heed  to  the 
things  which  we  have  heard,  lest  at  any  time  we  should  let 
them  slip. — Acts  2  : 1. 

F. 

The  Christian  should  be  Faithful. 

These  shall  make  war  with  the  Lamb,  and  the  Lamb  shall 
overcome  them ;  for  he  is  Lord  of  lords,  and  King  of  kings ;  and 
they  that  are  with  him  are  called,  and  chosen,  and  faithful. — 
Rev.  17:14. 

G. 

The  Christian  should  be  Q-odly. 

But  know  that  the  Lord  hath  set  apart  him  that  is  godly  for 
himself;  the  Lord  will  hear  when  I  call  unto  him. — Psa.  4 :  3. 

The  Christian  should  be  Humble. 

Likewise,  ye  younger,  submit  yourselves  unto  the  elder.  Yea, 
all  of  you  be  subject  one  to  another,  and  be  clothed  will  humil- 
ity ;  for  God  resisteth  the  proud,  and  giveth  grace  to  the  hum- 
ble.—1  Pet.  5:  5. 

I. 

The  Christian  should  be  Incorruptible. 

Being  born  again,  not  of  corruptil)le  seed,  but  of  incorrupti- 
ble, by  the  word  of  God,  which  liveth  and  abideth  for  ever. — 
1  Pet.  1:23. 


CLASS  EECITATIONS. 


67 


J. 

The  Christian  should  be  Just. 

And  behold,  there  was  a  man  in  Jerusalem,  whose  name  was 
Simeon;  and  the  same  man  was  just  and  devout. — Luke  2:  25. 

K. 

The  Christian  should  be  Kind. 

Be  kindly  afFectioned  one  to  another  with  brothely  love ;  in 
honor  preferring  one  another. — Rom.  12: 10. 

li. 

The  Christian  should  be  Loving. 

But  as  touching  brotherly  love  ye  need  not  that  I  write  unto 
you ;  for  ye  yourselves  are  taught  of  God  to  love  one  another. — 
IThes.,  4:9. 

M. 

The  Christian  should  be  Meeh. 

Blessed  are  the  meek,  for  they  shall  inherit  the  earth. — ^Matt. 
5;  5. 

N. 

The  Christian  should  be  Noble. 

For  ye  see  your  calling,  brethren,  how  that  not  many  wise 
men  after  the  flesh,  not  many  mighty,  not  many  noble  are 
called.— 1  Cor.,  1:26. 

O. 

The  Christian  should  be  Obedient. 

As  obedient  children,  not  fashioning  yourselves  according  to 
the  former  lusts  in  your  ignorance. — 1  Pet.  1 : 14. 

P. 

The  Christian  should  be  Patient. 

Patient  in  tribulation,  continuing  instant  in  prayer.  — Eom. 
12:14. 


58 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Q 

The  Christian  should  be  QuieL 

That  we  may  lead  a  quiet  and  peaceable  life  in  all  godliness 
and  honesty. — 1  Tim.  2:2. 

The  Christian  should  be  Righteous. 

Thy  people  also  shall  be  all  righteous ;  they  shall  inherit  the 
land  for  ever. — Isa.  60 :  21. 

S. 

The  Christian  should  be  Steadfast. 

For,  though  I  be  absent  in  the  flesh,  yet  am  I  with  you  in  the 
spirit,  joying  and  beholding  your  order,  and  the  steadfastness  of 
your  faith  in  Christ. — Col.  2:  5. 

T. 

The  Christian  should  be  True. 

By  honor  and  dishonor,  by  evil  report  and  good  report;  as  de- 
ceivers, and  yet  true. — 2  Cor.  6:8. 

U. 

The  Christian  should  be  Upright. 

Who  shall  dwell  in  thy  holy  hill  ?  He  that  walketh  uprightly 
and  worketh  righteousness,  and  speaketh  the  truth  in  his  heart. 
— Ps.  15:1,  2. 

V. 

The  Christian  should  be  Vigilant. 

A  bishop  then  must  be  blameless,  vigilant,  sober,  of  good  be- 
havior, given  to  hospitality,  apt  to  teach. — 1  Tim.  3:  2. 

W. 

The  Christian  should  be  Watchful. 

Blessed  are  those  servants,  whom  the  Lord,  when  he  cometh, 
shall  find  watching;  verily  I  say  unto  you,  that  he  shall  gird 
himself,  and  make  them  to  sit  down  to  meat,  and  will  come  forth 
and  serve  them. — Luke  12 :  37. 


CLASS  RECITATIONS. 


69 


X. 

The  Christian  should  be  ready  to  eXhort. 

These  things  speak  and  exhort,  and  rebuke,  with  all  author- 
ity.—Titus  3:  15. 

Y. 

The  Christian  should  be  Yielding. 

Even  so  now  yield  your  members  servants  to  righteousness 
unto  holiness. — Rom.  6 : 14. 

Z. 

The  Christian  should  be  Zealous. 

Who  gave  himself  for  us,  that  he  might  redeem  us  from  all 
iniquity,  and  purify  unto  himself  a  peculiar  people,  zealous  of 
good  works.— Titus  2  : 14. 


HE  THAT  OVERCOMETH. 


He  that  hath  an  ear,  let  him  hear  what  the 
Spirit  saith  unto  the  churches :  —  To  him 
that  overcometh  will  I  give  to  eat  of  the  tree 
of  life,  which  is  in  the  midst  of  the  paradise 
of  God.— Rev.  2 :  T. 

Be  thou  faithful  unto  death,  and  I  will 
give  thee  a  crown  of  life. — Rev.  2 :  10. 

Be  faithful  unto  death, 

Partake  my  victory, 
And  thou  shalt  wear  this  glorious  wreath, 

And  thou  shalt  reign  with  me. 

He  that  hath  an  ear,  let  him  hear  what 
the  Spirit  saith  unto  the  churches :  To  him 
that  overcometh  will  I  give  to  eat  of  the  hid- 
den manna,  and  will  give  him  a  white  stone, 
and  in  the  stone  a  new  name  written,  which 
no  man  knoweth  saving  he  that  receiveth  it. 
—Rev.  2:17. 

And  he  that  overcometh  and  keepeth  my 
works  unto  the  end,  to  him  will  I  give  pow- 
er over  the  nations. 

And  he  shall  rule  them  with  a  rod  of  iron ; 
as  the  vessels  of  a  potter  shall  they  be  broken 
to  shivers  :  even  as  I  received  of  my  Father. 

60 


CLASS  RECITATIONS. 


61 


And  I  will  give  him  the  morning  star. — 
Rev.  2 :  26-28. 

He  that  overcometh,  the  same  shall  be 
clothed  in  white  raiment;  and  I  will  not 
blot  out  his  name  out  of  the  book  of  life, 
but  I  will  confess  his  name  before  my  Fath- 
er, and  before  his  angels. — Rev.  3  :  5. 

There  is  a  glorious  world  of  light 

Above  the  starry  sky. 
Where  saints  departed,  clothed  in  white, 
Adore  the  Lord  most  high. 

And  hark !  amid  the  sacred  songs 

Those  heavenly  voices  raise. 
Ten  thousand  thousand  infant  tongues 
*  Unite  in  perfect  praise. 

Him  that  overcometh,  will  I  make  a  pil- 
lar in  the  temple  of  my  God,  and  he  shall 
go  no  more  out:  and  I  will  write  upon  him 
the  name  of  my  God,  and  the  name  of  the 
city  of  my  God,  which  is  new  Jerusalem, 
which  Cometh  down  out  of  heaven  from  my 
God  :  and  I  will  write  upon  him  my  new 
name.    Rev.  3  :  12. 

Beyond  the  choicest  joys  of  time, 

Thy  courts  on  earth  I  love : 
But,  oh,  I  burn  with  strong  desire 

To  dwell  with  thee  above. 

There,  joined  with  all  the  shining  band, 

My  soul  would  thee  adore, 
A  pillar  in  thy  temple  fixed, 

To  be  removed  no  more. 


62 


GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


NAMES  BY  WHICH  HEAVEN  IS 
KNOWN. 

PARADISE. 

And  Jesus  said  unto  .him,  Verily  I  say  un- 
to thee,  To-day  shalt  thou  be  with  me  in 
paradise.    Luke  23  :  43. 

The  dying  thief  rejoiced  to  see 

That  fountain  in  his  day  ; 
0,  may  I  there,  though  vile  as  he, 

Wash  all  my  sins  away. 

Thou  dying  Lamb,  thy  precious  blood 

Shall  never  lose  its  power, 
Till  all  the  ransomed  church  of  God 

Are  saved  to  sin  no  more.  * 

THE  KINGDOM. 

Then  shall  the  King  say  unto  them  on  his 
right  hand,  Come  ye  blessed  of  my  Father, 
inherit  the  kingdom  prepared  for  you  from 
the  foundation  of  the  world.    Matt.  25  :  34. 

But  to  those  who  have  confessed, 
Loved  and  served  the  Lord  below, 

He  will  say,  "  Come  near,  ye  blessed ; 
See  the  kingdom  I  bestow  : 

You  forever 
Shall  my  love  and  glory  know.** 

BETTER  COUNTRY. 

But  now  they  desire  a  better  country^ 
that  is,  an  heiiveiily  :  wherefore  God  is  not 


CLASS  EECITATIONS.  63 

ashamed  to  be  called  their  God  :  for  he  hath 
prepared  for  them  a  city.    Heb.  11:  16. 

There  is  a  land  mine  eye  hath  seen, 

In  visions  of  enraptured  thought, 
So  bright  that  all  which  spreads  between 

Is  with  its  radiant  glory  fraught ;  — 

A  land  upon  whose  blissful  shore 

There  rests  no  shadow,  falls  no  stain ; 

There  those  who  meet  shall  part  no  more, 
And  those  long  parted  meet  again. 

A  HOUSE  NOT  MADE  WITH  HAKBS. 

For  we  know,  that  if  our  earthly  house 
of  this  tabernacle  were  dissolved,  we  have  a 
building  of  God,  a  house  not  made  with 
hands,  eternal  in  the  heavens.    2  Cor.  5 :  1. 

There  is  a  house  not  made  with  hands, 

Eternal,  and  on  high ; 
And  here  my  spirit  waiting  stands 

Till  God  shall  bid  it  fly. 

Shortly  this  prison  of  my  clay 

Must  be  dissolved  and  fall ; 
Then,  O  my  soul,  with  joy  obey 

Thy  heavenly  Father's  call. 

MOUNT  ZION. 

But  ye  are  not  come  unto  Mount  Sion,  and 
unto  the  city  of  the  living  God  the  heavenly 
Jerusalem,  and  to  an  innumerable  company 
of  angels. 


64  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 

To  the  general  assembly,  and  church  of 
the  first  born  which  are  written  in  heaven, 
and  to  God  the  Judge  of  all,  and  to  the 
spirits  of  just  men  made  perfect.  Heb.  12  : 
22,  23. 

Behold  the  blest  assembly  there, 
Whose  names  are  writ  in  heaven, 

And  God,  the  Judge,  who  doth  declare 
Their  vilest  sins  forgiven. 

The  saints  on  earth,  and  all  the  dead, 
But  one  communion  make ; 
All  join  in  Christ,  their  living  Head, 
And  of  his  grace  partake. 

MY  father's  house. 

Let  not  your  heart  be  troubled;  ye  believe 
in  God,  believe  also  in  me. 

In  my  Father's  house  are  many  mansions  ; 
if  it  were  not  so,  I  would  have  told  you  ;  I 
go  to  prepare  a  place  for  you.  John  14 : 
1,  2. 

There  is  a  place  of  sacred  rest, 

Far,  far  beyond  the  skies, 
Where  beauty  smiles  eternally, 

And  pleasure  never  dies  ;  — 

My  Father's  house,  my  heavenly  home, 
Where  "many  mansions"  stand. 

Prepared,  by  hands  divine,  for  all 
Who  seek  the  better  land. 


CLASS  RECITATIONS. 


65 


CITY  OF  MY  GOD. 

Him  that  oyercometli,  will  I  make  a  pillar 
in  the  temple  of  my  God,  and  he  shall  go 
no  more  out :  and  I  will  write  upon  him  the 
name  of  my  God,  and  the  name  of  the  city 
of  my  God,  which  is  new  Jerusalem,  which 
Cometh  down  out  of  heaven  from  my  God : 
And  I  will  write  upon  him  my  new  name. 
Rev.  3 :  12. 

My  soul,  triumphant  in  the  Lord, 

Proclaim  thy  joys  abroad, 
And  march  with  holy  vigor  on, 

Supported  by  thy  God. 

His  grace  through  all  the  desert  flows. 

An  unexhausted  stream : 
That  grace,  on  Zion's  sacred  mount, 

Shall  be  my  endless  theme. 

NEW  JERUSALEM. 

And  I  John  saw  the  holy  city,  new  Jeru- 
salem coming  down  from  God  out  of  heaven, 
prepared  as  a  bride  adorned  for  her  hus- 
band.   Rev.  21 :  2. 

Jerusalem  !  my  glorious  home ! 

Name  ever  dear  to  me ! 
When  shall  my  labors  have  an  end, 

In  joy,  and  peace,  and  thee ! 

When  shall  these  eyes  thy  heaven-built  walls 

And  pearly  gates  behold ! 
Thy  bulwarks  with  salvation  strong. 

And  streets  of  shining  gold? 


66 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


THIRD  HEAVEN. 

I  knew  a  man  in  Christ  above  fourteen 
years  ago,  whether  in  the  body,  I  cannot 
tell,  or  whether  out  of  the  body,  I  cannot 
tell,  God  knoweth  :  such  a  one,  caught  up  to 
the  third  heaven.    2  Cor.  12  :  2. 

O,  when,  thou  city  of  my  God, 

Shall  I  thy  courts  ascend, 
Where  congregations  ne'er  break  up, 

And  Sabbaths  have  no  end? 

Tliere  happier  bowers  than  Eden  bloom, 

Nor  sin  nor  sorrow  know  : 
Blest  seats !  through  rude  and  stormy  scenes 

I  onward  press  to  you. 

REST. 

There  remaineth  therefore  a  rest  to  the 
people  of  God.    Heb.  4  :  9. 

No  rude  alarms  of  angry  foes ; 
No  cares,  to  break  the  long  repose  ; 
No  midnight  shade,  no  clouded  sun. 
But  sacred,  high,  eternal  noon, 

O  long-expected  day,  begin  ; 
Dawn  on  these  realms  of  pain  and  sin ; 
With  joy  we  tread  the  appointed  road, 
And  sleep  in  death,  to  rest  with  God. 


CLASS  EECITATIONS. 


67 


THE  PILGRIM'S  PRAYER. 

FIEST  SCHOLAR. 

I  go  on  pilgrimage.    The  road  in  view 

Lies  fair  revealed ; 
But,  when  the  sun  shall  drink  the  wayside  dew, 

Be  Thou  my  Shield. 

All  the  class  :  —  For  the  Lord  God  is 
a  sun  and  shield :  the  Lord  will  give  grace 
and  glory ;  no  good  thing  will  he  withhold 
from  them  that  walk  uprightly. 

O  Lord  of  hosts,  blessed  is  the  man  that 
trusteth  in  thee.    Psalm  84  :  11, 12. 

SECOND  SCHOLAR. 

The  soft  winds  shifts,  and  lo,  gray  mists  of  doubt, 

My  pathway  hide ; 
With  bruised  feet  and  hands  I  grope  about ; 

Be  Thou  my  Guide. 

All-  THE  CLASS  :  —  Thou  shalt  guide  me 
with  thy  counsel,  and  afterward  receive  me 
to  glory. 

Whom  have  I  in  heaven  but  thee  ?  and 
there  is  none  upon  earth  that  I  desire  be- 
sides thee.    Psalm  73  :  24,  25. 

THIRD  SCHOLAR. 

Now  tempest  rise,  and  o*er  the  wind-swept  way 

To  'scape  the  shock, 
Seeking  some  covert  vainly  as  I  stray. 

Be  Thou  my  Rock. 


68 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


All  THE  CLASS  :  —  Be  thou  my  strong 
rock,  for  a  house  of  defence  to  save  me. 

For  thou  art  my  rock  and  my  fortress ; 
therefore  for  my  name's  sake  lead  me,  and 
guide  me.    Psa.  81 :  2,  3. 

FOURTH  SCHOLAR. 

Though  after  storm,  stealing  through  sun-touched  rift, 

Cahn  comes  at  length, 
O'er  borne  and  prone,  mine  eyes  I  may  not  lift, 

Be  Thou  my  Strength. 

All  THE  CLASS  :  —  The  Lord  will  give 
strength  unto  his  people :  the  lord  will 
bless  his  people  with  peace.    Psalm  29:  11. 

Sing  aloud  unto  God  our  strength :  make 
a  joyful  noise  unto  the  God  of  Jacob. 
Psalm  81 :  1. 

FIFTH  SCHOLAR. 

One  draught  from  Thy  life-giving  fountain  send, 

And  let  me  quaff  — 
Refreshed,  I'll  gird  me  for  my  journey's  end  ; 
Be  Thou  my  Staff. 

All  the  class  :  Yea,  though  I  walk 
through  the  valley  of  the  shadow  of  death, 
I  will  fear  no  evil ;  for  thou  art  with  me  ; 
thy  rod  and  thy  staff  they  comfort  me. 
— Ps.  23  :  4. 

SIXTH  SCHOLAR. 

When  pilgrimage  is  o'er  and  life's  day  lies 

Low  in  the  west  — 
While  the  night  shadows  dim  my  weary  eyes. 
Be  Thou  my  Rest. 


CLASS  RECITATIONS. 


69 


All  the  class  :  —  Return  unto  thy  rest, 
O  my  soul ;  for  the  Lord  hath  dwelt  bounti- 
fully with  thee. 

For  thou  hast  delivered  my  soul  from 
death,  my  eyes  from  tears,  and  my  feet  from 
faUing.    Psalm  116  :  7,  8. 


HEAVIER  THE  CROSS. 

1st. 

Heavier  the  Cross,  the  nearer  Heaven ; 

No  cross  without,  no  God  within  — 
Death,  judgment  from  the  heart  are  driven 
Amid  the  world's  false  glare  and  din. 
Oh !  happy  he  with  all  his  loss, 
Whom  God  hath  set  beneath  the  Cross. 

2nd. 

Heavier  the  Cross,  the  better  Christian; 

This  is  the  touch-stone  God  applies. 
How  many  a  garden  would  be  wasting, 
Unwet  by  showers  from  weeping  eyes. 
The  gold  by  lire  is  purified ; 
The  Christian  is  by  trouble  tried. 

3d. 

Heavier  the  Cross,  the  stronger  Faith ; 

The  loaded  palm  strikes  deeper  root ; 
The  vine-juice  sweetly  issueth 
When  men  have  pressed  the  clustered  fruits; 
And  courage  grows  where  dangers  come, 
Like  pearls  beneath  the  salt  sea  foam. 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


4th. 

Heavier  the  Cross,  the  heartier  prayer ; 

The  bruised  reeds  most  fragrant  are; 
If  sky  and  wind  were  always  fair, 
The  saiior  would  not  watch  the  star ; 

And  David's  psalms  had  ne'er  been  sung, 
If  grief  his  heart  had  never  wrung. 

5th. 

Heavier  the  Cross,  the  more  aspiring ; 

From  vales  we  climb  to  mountain  crest ; 
The  pilgrims  of  the  desert  tiring, 
Longs  for  the  Canaan  of  his  rest. 
The  dove  has  here  no  rest  in  sight, 
And  to  the  ark  she  wings  her  flight. 

6th. 

Heavier  the  Cross,  the  easier  dying ; 

Death  is  a  friendlier  face  to  see ; 
To  life's  decay  one  bids  defying, 
From  life's  distress  one  then  is  free. 
The  Cross  sublimely  lifts  our  faith 
To  Him  who  triumphs  over  death. 

7th. 

Thou  crucified,  the  Cross  I  carry, 

The  longer,  may  it  dearer  be : 
And  lest  I  faint  while  here  I  tarry. 
Implant  Thou  such  a  heart  in  me. 

That  faith,  hope,  love,  may  flourish  there, 
Till  for  the  Cross,  my  Crown  I  wear. 


CLASS  RECITATIONS. 


71 


OUR  STRENGTH. 

The  Lord  is  my  light  and  my  salvation  ; 
whom  shall  I  fear  ?  the  Lord  is  the  strength 
of  my  life  ;  of  whom  shall  I  be  afraid  ?  Ps. 
27:  1. 

The  Lord  is  my  strength  and  my  shield ; 
my  heart  trusted  in  him,  and  I  am  helped : 
therefore  my  heart  greatly  rejoiceth :  and 
with  my  song  will  I  praise  him. 

The  Lord  is  their  strength,  and  he  is  the 
saving  strength  of  his  anointed.  Ps.  28 : 
7,8.  _  ; 

The  Lord  will  give  strength  unto  his  peo- 
ple; the  Lord  will  bless  his  people  with 
peace.    Psa.  29  :  11. 

God  is  our  refuge  and  strength,  a  very 
present  help  in  trouble.    Psa.  46  :  1. 

Ascribe  ye  strength  unto  God :  his  excel- 
lency is  over  Israel,  and  his  strength  is  in 
the  clouds. 

O  God,  thou  art  terrible  out  of  thy  holy 
places ;  the  God  of  Israel  is  he  that  giveth 
strength  and  power  unto  his  people.  Bless- 
ed be  God.    Psa.  68 :  34,  35. 

God  is  the  strength  of  my  heart,  and  my 
portion  for  ever.    Psa.  73 :  26. 


72 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


The  Lord  is  clothed  with  strength,  where- 
with he  hath  girded  himself :  the  world  also 
is  established,  that  it  cannot  be  moved.  Ps. 
93:  1. 

O  God,  the  Lord,  the  strength  of  my  sal- 
vation, thou  hast  covered  my  head  in  the 
day  of  battle.    Psa.  140  :  7. 

For  thou  hast  been  a  strength  to  the  poor, 
a  strength  to  the  needy  in  his  distress,  a  refuge 
from  the  storm,  a  shadow  from  the  heat, 
when  the  blast  of  the  terrible  ones  is  as  a 
Btorm  against  the  wall.    Isa.  25 :  4. 


WOMAN'S  MISSION. 


Who  can  find  a  virtuous  woman  ?  for  her 
price  is  far  above  rubies. 

The  heart  of  her  husband  doth  safely 
trust  in  her,  so  that  he  shall  have  no  need 
of  spoil. 

She  will  do  him  good  and  not  evil  all  the 
days  of  her  life. 

She  seeketh  wool,  and  flax,  and  worketh 
willingly  with  her  hands. 

She  is  like  the  merchants'  ships :  she 
bringeth  her  food  from  afar. 

She  riseth  also  while  it  is  yet  night,  and 
giveth  meat  to  her  household,  and  a  portion 
o  her  maidens. 

She  considereth  a  field,  and  buyeth  it ; 
with  the  fruit  of  her  hand  she  planteth  a 
vineyard. 

73 


74 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


She  girdeth  her  loins  with  strength,  and 
strengtheneth  her  arms. 

She  perceiveth  that  her  merchandise  is 
good :  her  candle  goeth  not  out  by  night. 

She  layeth  her  hands  to  the  spindle,  and 
her  hands  hold  the  distaff. 

She  stretcheth  out  her  hands  to  the  poor  ; 
yea,  she  reacheth  forth  her  hands  to  the 
needy. 

She  is  not  afraid  of  the  snow  for  her 
household ;  for  all  her  household  are  clothed 
with  scarlet. 

She  maketh  herself  coverings  of  tapestry ; 
her  clothing  is  silk  and  purple. 

Her  husband  is  known  in  the  gates,  when 
he  sitteth  among  the  elders  of  the  land. 

She  maketh  fine  linen  and  selleth  it ;  and 
delivereth  girdles  unto  the  merchant. 

Strength  and  honor  are  her  clothing  ;  and 
she  shall  rejoice  in  time  to  come. 

She  openeth  her  mouth  with  wisdom ;  and 
in  her  tongue  is  the  law  of  kindness. 

She  looketh  well  to  the  ways  of  her  house- 
hold, and  eateth  not  the  bread  of  idleness. 

Her  children  arise  up,  and  call  her  blessed ; 
her  husband  also,  and  he  praiseth  her. 

Many  daughters  have  done  virtuously,  but 
thou  excellest  them  all. 


CLASS  EECITATIONS. 


75 


Favor  is  deceitful,  and  beauty  is  vain  ;  but 
a  woman  that  feareth  the  Lord,  she  shall  be 
praised. 

Give  her  of  the  fruit  of  her  hands ;  and 
let  her  own  works  praise  her  in  the  gates. 

HUMILITY. 

The  fear  of  the  Lord  is  the  instruction 
of  wisdom  ;  and  before  honor  is  humility. 
Prov.  15  :  33. 

By  humility  and  the  fear  of  the  Lord  are 
riches,  and  honor  and  life.    Prov.  22 :  4. 

Humble  yourselves  therefore  under  the 
mighty  hand  of  God,  that  he  may  exalt  you 
in  due  time :  1  Pet.  5  :  6. 

He  forgetteth  not  the  cry  of  the  humble. 
Psa.  9 :  12. 

Arise,  O  Lord ;  O  God,  lift  up  thine  hand ; 
forget  not  the  humble.    Psa.  10  :  12. 

Lord,  thou  hast  heard  the  desire  of  the 
humble :  thou  wilt  prepare  their  heart,  thou 
wilt  cause  thy  ear  to  hear.    Psa.  10  :  17. 

My  soul  shall  make  her  boast  in  the  Lord ; 
the  humble  shall  hear  thereof,  and  be  glad. 
Psa.  34 :  2. 


76 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Better  it  is  to  be  of  a  humble  spirit  with 
the  lowly,  than  to  divide  the  spoil  with  the 
proud.    Prov.  16  :  19. 

But  honor  shall  uphold  the  humble  in 
spirit.    Prov.  29 :  23. 

>      DAY  AND  NIGHT. 

In  his  law  doth  he  meditate  day  and  night. 
— Psa.  1 :  2. 

They  change  the  night  into  day  ;  the  light 
is  short  because  of  darkness. — Job  17 :  12. 

He  hath  compassed  the  waters  with 
bounds,  until  the  day  and  night  come  to  an 
end.— Job  26  :  10. 

For  day  and  night  thy  hand  was  heavy 
upon  me  ;  my  moisture  is  turned  into  the 
drought  of  summer. — Psa.  32  :  4. 

My  tears  have  been  my  meat  day  and 
night,  while  they  continually  say  unto  me, 
Where  is  thy  God  ?— Psa.  42  :  3. 

Day  and  night  they  go  about  it  upon  the 
walls  thereof ;  mischief  also  and  sorrow  are 
in  the  midst  of  it. — Psa.  65 :  10. 

The  day  is  thine,  the  night  also  is  thine  1  . 


CLASS  RECITATIONS. 


77 


thou  hast  prepared  the  light  and  the  bun. — 
Psa.  74 :  16. 

O,  Lord  God  of  my  salvation,  I  have  cried 
day  and  night  before  thee. — Ps.  88  :  1. 

Yea,  the  darkness  hidnth  not  from  thee  ; 
but  the  night  shineth  as  the  day  ;  the  dark- 
ness and  the  light  are  both  alike  to  thee. — 
Psa.  189 :  12. 

I  the  Lord  do  keep  it ;  I  will  water  it  ev- 
ery moment ;  lest  any  hurt  it,  I  will  keep  it 
night  and  day. — Isa.  27  :  3. 

I  have  set  watchmen  upon  thy  walls,  O 
Jerusalem,  which  shall  never  hold  their  peace 
day  nor  night ;  ye  that  make  mention  of  the 
Lord,  keep  not  silence. — Isa.  62 :  6. 

But  it  shall  be  one  day  which  shall  be 
known  to  the  Lord,  not  day,  nor  night ;  but 
it  shall  come  to  pass  that  at  evening  time  it 
shall  be  light.— Zech.  14 :  7. 

And  shall  not  God  avenge  his  own  elect, 
which  cry  day  and  night  unto  him,  though  he 
bear  long  with  them?  —  Luke  18  :  7. 

For  ye  remember,  brethren,  our  labor  and 
travail :  for  laboring  night  and  day,  because 
we  would  not  be  chargeable  unto  any  of  you, 
we  preached  unto  you  the  gospel  of  God. — 
1  Thes.  2 :  9. 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


THE  CHRISTIAN'S  WALK. 

FIRST. 

Christian,  walk  carefully  —  danger  is  near, 
Work  out  thy  journey  with  trembling  and  fear ; 

Snares  from  without  and  temptation  within 
Seek  to  entice  thee  again  into  sin. 

SECOND. 

Christian,  walk  humbly,  exalt  not  in  pride, 
All  that  thou  hast  is  by  Jesus  supplied  ; 

He  holdeth  thee  up,  he  directeth  thy  ways, 
To  him  be  the  glory,  to  him  be  the  praise 

THIRD. 

Christian,  walk  cheerfully,  though  the  dark  storm 
Fill  the  bright  sky  with  the  clouds  of  alarm ; 

Soon  will  the  clouds  and  the  tempest  be  passed, 
And  thou  shall  dwell  safely  with  Jesus  at  last. 

FOURTH. 

Christian,  walk  steadfastly  while  it  is  light ; 

Swift  are  approaching  the  shades  of  the  night ; 
All  that  thy  Master  hath  bidden  thee  do, 

Haste  to  perform,  for  the  moments  are  few. 

FIFTH. 

Christian,  walk  prayerfully,  —  oft  wilt  thou  fall, 
If  thou  forget  on  thy  Saviour  to  call ; 

Safe  shalt  thou  walk  through  each  trial  and  care, 
If  thou  art  clad  in  the  armor  of  prayer. 

SIXTH. 

Christian,  walk  joyfully  —  trouble  and  pain 
Cease  when  the  haven  of  rest  thou  dost  gain  ; 

This  thy  bright  glory,  and  this  thy  reward  : 
"  Enter  thou  into  the  joy  ot  our  Lord." 


CLASS  RECITATIONS. 


79 


STEADFASTNESS. 

For  though  I  be  absent  in  the  flesh,  yet 
am  I  with  you  in  the  spirit,  joying  and  be- 
holding j^our  order,  and  the  steadfastness  of 
your  faith  in  Christ. — Col.  2,  5. 

Ye  therefore,  beloved,  seeing  ye  know 
these  things  before,  beware  lest  ye  also,  be- 
ing led  away  with  the  error  of  the  wicked, 
fall  from  your  own  steadfastness. 

But  grow  in  grace,  and  in  the  knowledge 
of  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ. — 2 
Pet.  3:  17,  18. 

For  then  shalt  thou  lift  up  thy  face  with- 
out spot ;  yea,  thou  shalt  be  steadfast,  and 
shalt  not  fear. —  Job.  11 : 15. 

For  he  is  the  living  God,  and  steadfast  for 
ever,  and  his  kingdom  that  which  shall  not 
be  destroyed,  and  his  dominion  shall  be  even 
unto  the  end. — Dan.  6 :  26. 

Therefore,  my  beloved  brethren,  be  ye 
steadfast,  unmoveable,  always  abounding  in 
the  work  of  the  Lord,  forasmuch  as  ye 
know  that  your  labor  is  not  in  vain  in  the 
Lord.— 1  Cor.  15  :  58. 

And  our  hope  of  you  is  steadfast,  knowing 


80 


GATHERED  SHEAVES, 


that,  as  ye  are  partakers  of  the  sufferings,  so 
shall  ye  be  also  of  the  consolation.  —  2  Cor. 
1:  7. 

For  we  are  made  partakers  of  Christ,  if 
we  hold  the  beginning  of  our  confidence 
steadfast  unto  the  end. — Heb.  3 :  14. 

Which  hope  we  have  as  an  anchor  of  the 
soul,  both  sure  and  steadfast,  and  which  en- 
tereth  into  that  within  the  vail. — Heb.  6 : 
19. 

Whom  resist  steadfast  in  the  faith,  know- 
ing that  the  same  afflictions  are  accomplished 
in  your  brethren  that  are  in  the  world.  1 
Pet.  6 :  9. 

THE  CHRISTIAN'S  GOD. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Deliverer. 

And  he  said.  The  Lord  is  my  rock  and  my 
fortress,  and  my  deliverer. — 2  Sam.  22  :  2. 

Thou  our  deliverer  art,  O  God  ; 

Our  trust  is  in  thy  power ; 
Thou  art  our  shield  from  foes  abroad, 

Our  safeguard,  and  our  tower. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Father. 

But  now,  O  Lord,  thou  art  our  Father ; 


CLASS  RECITATIONS. 


81 


we  are  the  clay,  and  thou  our  potter;  and 
we  all  are  the  work  of  thy  hand. — Isa.  64 :  8. 

Thou  great  and  good,  thou  just  and  wise, 

Thou  art  my  Father  and  my  God ; 
And  I  am  thine  by  sacred  ties, 

Thy  son,  thy  servant,  bought  with  blood. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Guide. 

For  this  God  is  our  God  for  ever  and 
ever :  he  will  be  our  guide  even  unto  death. 
— Psa.  48  :  14. 

And  the  Lord  shall  guide  thee  continually, 
and  satisfy  thy  soul  in  drought,  and  make 
fat  thy  bones :  and  thou  shalt  be  like  a 
watered  garden,  and  like  a  spring  of  water, 
whose  waters  fail  not. — Isa.  68  :  11. 

Guide  me,  0  thou  great  Jehovah, 
Pilgrim  through  this  barren  land : 

I  am  weak,  but  thou  art  mighty  ; 
Hold  me  with  thy  powerful  hand : 

God  is  the  Christian's  Gilory. 

But  thou,  O  Lord,  art  a  shield  for  me  ; 
my  glory,  and  the  lifter  up  of  my  head. 
—Psa.  3  :  3. 

The  Lord  shall  be  unto  thee  an  everlast- 
ing light,  and  thy  God  thy  glory. — Isa.  60  : 
19. 


82 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


O,  WORSHIP  the  King,  all  glorious  above, 
And  gratefully  sing  his  wonderful  love, 
Our  Shield,  and  Defender,  the  Ancient  of  Days, 
Pavilioned  in  splendor,  and  girded  with  praise. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Helper. 

Our  souls  waiteth  for  the  Lord  :  he  is  our 
help  and  our  shield. — Psa.  33  :  20. 

The  Lord  is  my  helper,  and  I  will  not 
fear  what  man  shall  do  unto  me. — Heb. 
13:  6. 

Frail  children  of  dust,  and  feeble  as  frail. 
In  thee  do  we  trust,  nor  find  thee  to  fail ; 
Thy  mercies  how  tender !  how  firm  to  the  end ! 
Our  Maker,  Defender,  Redeemer,  and  Friend. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Hahitation. 

Lord,  thou  hast  been  our  dwelling  place 
in  all  generations. — Psa.  90  :  1. 

Because  thou  hast  made  the  Lord,  which 
is  my  refuge,  even  the  Most  High,  thy  habi- 
tation.— Psa.  91 :  9. 

Through  every  age,  eternal  God, 

Thou  art  our  rest,  our  safe  abode  : 

High  was  thy  throne  ere  heaven  was  made, 

Or  earth,  thy  humble  footstool,  laid. 

God  is  the  Christian's  King. 

Hearken  unto  the  voice  of  my  cry,  my 
King,  and  my  God;  for  unto  thee  will  I 
pray. — Psa.  5:2. 


CLASS  RECITATIOKS. 


83 


Thou  art  my  King,  O  God  :  command 
deliverances  for  Jacob. — Psa.  44 :  4. 

Nature  with  all  her  powers,  shall  sing 
Her  great  Creator  and  her  King ; 
Nor  air,  nor  earth,  nor  skies,  nor  seas, 
Deny  the  tribute  of  their  praise. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Keeper. 

Behold  he  that  keepeth  Israel  shall  neither 
slumber  nor  sleep. 

The  Lord  is  thy  keeper  :  the  Lord  is  thy 
shade  upon  thy  right  hand, — Psa.  121 :  4,  5. 

Thou  who  slumbereth  not,  nor  sleepest, 
Blest  are  they  thou  kindly  keepest ; 
Thou  of  every  good  the  Giver, 
Blessed  be  thy  name  forever. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Lawgiver. 

For  the  Lord  is  our  judge,  the  Lord  is 
our  lawgiver,  the  Lord  is  our  king :  he  will 
save  us. — Isa.  33  :  22. 

Now  is  the  time  — he  bends  his  ear, 

And  waits  for  your  request ; 
Come,  lest  he  rouse  his  wrath,  and  swear, 

"  Ye  shall  not  see  my  rest.'* 

God  is  the  Christian's  Light. 

The  Lord  is  my  light  and  my  salvation, 
whom  shall  I  fear  ?  the  Lord  is  the  strength 
of  my  Ufe ;  of  whom  shall  I  be  afraid? — Psa. 
27  :  1. 


84 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


The  Lord  of  glory  is  my  light, 

And  my  salvation  too ; 
God  is  strength,  nor  will  I  fear 

What  all  my  foes  can  do. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Portion. 

But  God  is  the  strength  of  my  heart,  and 
my  portion  for  ever. — Psa.  73  :  26. 

The  Lord  is  my  portion,  saith  my  soul ; 
therefore  will  I  hope  in  him. — Lam.  3 :  24. 

God,  my  supporter  and  my  hope,  • 

My  help  forever  near, 
Thine  arm  of  mercy  held  me  up. 
When  sinking  in  despair. 

Thy  counsels,  Lord,  shall  guide  my  feet 

Through  this  dark  wilderness  ; 
Thine  hand  conduct  me  near  thy  seat. 

To  dwell  before  thy  face. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Redeemer. 

Let  the  words  of  my  mouth,  and  the  med- 
itation of  my  heart,  be  acceptible  in  thy 
sight,  O  Lord,  my  strength  and  my  redeem- 
er.—Psa.  19 :  14. 

Rejoice !  the  Lord  is  King ; 

Your  God  and  King  adore  : 
Mortals,  give  thanks  and  sing, 

And  triumph  evermore. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Refuge. 

God  is  our  refuge  and  strength,  a  very 
present  help  in  trouble. — Psa.  46 :  1. 


CLASS  RECITATIONS. 


85 


The  Lord  of  hosts  is  with  us ;  the  God  of 
Jacob  is  our  refuge. — Psa.  46  :  11. 

For  thou  hast  been  a  strength  to  the  poor, 
a  strength  to  the  needy  in  his  distress,  a 
refuge  from  the  storm,  a  shadow  from  the 
heat,  when  a  blast  of  the  terrible  ones  is  as  a 
storm  against  the  wall. — Isa.  25  :  4. 

To  this  sure  refuge,  Lord,  we  come, 

And  here  our  hope  relies  ; 
A  safe  defence,  a  peaceful  home, 

When  storms  of  trouble  rise. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Salvation. 

The  Lord  is  my  rock,  and  my  fortress, 
and  my  deliverer ;  my  God,  my  strength,  in 
whom  I  will  trust ;  my  buckler,  and  the  horn 
of  my  salvation,  and  my  high  tower. — Psa. 
18:  2. 

God  is  my  strong  salvation : 

What  foe  have  I  to  fear  V 
In  darkness  and  temptation, 

My  light,  my  help  is  near ; 
Though  hosts  encamp  around  me 

Firm  in  the  fight  I  stand : 
What  terror  can  confound  me, 

With  God  at  my  right  hand  ? 

God  is  the  Christian's  Strength, 

God  is  our  refuge  and  strength,  a  very 
present  help  in  trouble, — Psa.  46  :  1. 


86 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


O  God,  our  help  in  ages  past, 

Our  hope  for  years  to  come, 
Our  shelter  from  the  stormy  blast, 

And  our  eternal  home, — 

Beneath  the  shadow  of  thy  throne 

Thy  saints  have  dwelt  secure  • 
Sufficient  is  thine  arm  alone, 

And  our  defence  is  sure. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Shield. 

After  these  things  the  word  of  the  Lord 
came  unto  Abram  in  a  vision,  saying,  Fear 
not,  Abram  ;  I  am  thy  shield,  and  thy  ex- 
ceeding great  reward. — Gen.  15  :  1. 

For  the  Lord  God  is  a  sun  and  shield ;  the 
Lord  will  give  grace  and  glory :  no  good 
thing  will  he  withhold  from  them  that  walk 
uprightly. — Psa.  84  :  11. 

God  is  our  shield,  and  God  our  sun ; 
Swift  as  the  fleeting  moments  run. 
On  us  he  sheds  new  beams  of  grace ; 
And  we  reflect  his  brightest  praise. 

God  is  the  Christian's  Tower. 

The  God  of  my  rock  ;  in  him  will  I  trust ; 
he  is  my  shield,  and  the  horn  of  my  salva- 
tion, my  high  tower,  and  my  refuge,  my 
savior  ;  thou  savest  me  from  violence. 
2  Sam.  22 :  3. 


CLASS  RECITATIONS. 


87 


For  thou  hast  been  a  shelter  for  me,  and 
a  strong  tower  from  the  enemy. — Psa.  61 :  3. 

Faithful,  O  Lord,  thy  mercies  are, 

A  rock  that  cannot  move  : 
A  mousand  promises  declare 

Thy  constancy  of  love. 


JESUS: 

THE  ROSE  OF  SHARON,  AND  THE 
LILY  OF  THE  VALLEY. 


Directions.  Prepare  three  arches,  the 
center  one  considerably  higher  than  those  on 
the  side,  similar  to  diagram  given  above. 
The  arches  may  be  made  of  thin  boards  at  a 
trifling  expense,  covering  the  tops  with 
fancy  cardboard  and  the  four  standards  with 
evergreen.  The  letters  are  to  be  made  of 
cardboard,  and  decorated  with  flowers,  tak- 
ing care  to  have  those  forming  the  word 
JESUS  on  the  centre  arch  larger  than  those 
designed  for  the  other  arches.    The  arches 

91 


92 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


and  letters  may  be  made  of  any  desired  size, 
and  if  used  at  a  Floral  Concert  for  which  it 
is  intended,  they  should  be  profusely  deco- 
rated with  flowers  ;  suspend  hanging  baskets 
of  flowers  beneath  the  centre  of  each  arch, 
and  place  beneath  them  tables  with  symboli- 
cal emblems  —  a  Cross  and  Crown  beneath 
the  middle  arch,  with  Harp  and  Anchor  for 
the  sides.  Other  decorations  of  flowers  can 
be  added  as  taste  and  time  suggests.  As 
each  scholar  recites  his  portion,  his  letter  is 
to  be  placed  in  position  on  the  arches  by 
some  one  selected  for  the  purpose.  Form 
the  motto  Jesus  first,  then  "  The  Rose  of 
Sharon;'  and  ''The  Lily  of  the  Valley." 
The  peetry  used  in  forming  Jesus  is  from 
an  exercise  published  some  years  since  in 
"  The  Teacher:' 

THE  EXERCISE. 

SiNGiKG:  "Crown  him  Lord  of  all." 
Royal  Diadem^  p.  3. 

1st  Scholar,      "  We  bring  a  word  of  power  and  grace 
Of  might  and  wondrous  beauty, 
Among  these  names  to  have  a  place 
And  tell  of  love  and  duty. 
*  We  bring  pure  gifts  most  nobly  brought, 

Yet  to  us  freely  given, 
We  tell  the  glories  he  hath  wrought 
Who  reigns  in  earth  and  heaven.'* 


GENERAL  EXERCISES. 


93 


2nd  Scholar.     "  The  first  is  welcome  to  the  heart 
Of  child  or  youth  or  age  ; 
It  never  faileth  to  impart 
New  life  to  babe  or  sage  ; 
I  gladly  bring  you  purest  Joy^ 
The  gift  of  Christ  without  alloy." 

J  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

3d  Scholar.      "  The  second  every  Christian  needs 
To  cheer  him  on  the  way, 
And  onward  lead  to  earnest  deeds 
That  mark  a  well  filled  day. 
I  give  Encouragement  from  Him 
Who's  nearest  when  life's  day  is  dim." 

E  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

S. 

4th  Scholar.      "  The  third  assures  the  trembling  soul 
When  danger  hovers  nigh  ; 
Like  a  sure  anchor  keeps  it  whole 
Though  storms  are  raging  high. 
I  give  Security  in  One 
Whose  precious  name  can  save  alone.'* 

S  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

5th  Scholar.     "  The  fourth  is  sweetest  of  them  all, 
No  words  could  touch  like  these  ; 
Or  out  from  depths  of  sin  could  call 
To  pure  and  holj^  peace. 
Undying  Love,  oh,  glorious  gift. 
That  up  to  Christ  our  souls  can  lift.'* 

U  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 


94 


GATHERED  SHEATES. 


S. 

6th  Scholar.     "  The  fifth  is  strength  and  life  most  sare, 
Free  given  us  from  God ; 
The  rock  that  shall  for  aye  endure 
Relief  from  every  load. 
It  is  Salvation^  in  it  rest 
And  be  in  him  forever  blest.'* 

S  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

7th  Scholar.      "  When  Jesus  came  the  world's  dark  night 
Was  lighted  with  His  glory ; 
And  angels  fair  on  pinions  bright 
Came  down  to  tell  the  story. 
When  Jesus  died,  his  work  complete, 
The  ransom  paid  to  save  us, 
E'en  death  he  trampled  neath  his  feet, 
And  life  eternal  gave  us. 

Singing:  "Precious  Name."  Fure  Gold, 
p.  13. 

Supt:  We  have  presented  to  you  the 
name  of  Jesus^  and  we  now  propose  to  tell 
you  some  of  the  names  by  which  He  is 
called ;  by  the  use  of  these  names  or  titles 
we  are  going  to  form  another  title  of  jesus, 
by  which  He  is  frequently  called  and  which 
is  the  subject  of  our  exercise  this  evening. 

T. 

8th.    He  is  called  a  Teacher  in  John  3  :  2. 


The  same  came  to  Jesus  by  night,  and  said  unto  him,  Rabbi, 
we  know  that  thou  art  a  teacher  come  from  God  ;  for  no  man 
can  do  these  miracles  that  thou  doest,  except  God  be  with  him. 


GENERAL  BXEBCISES. 


95 


How  sweetly  flowed  the  gospel  sound 

From  lips  of  gentleness  and  grace, 
When  listening  thousands  gathered  round, 

And  joy  and  gladness  filled  the  place! 

From  heaven  he  came,  of  heaven  he  spoke, 
To  heaven  he  led  his  followers'  way ; 

Dark  clouds  of  gloomy  night  he  broke, 
Unveiling  an  immortal  day. 

T  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

H. 

9th.    He  is  called  a  Hiding  Place  in  Isa. 
32:  2. 

And  a  man  shall  be  as  a  hiding  place  from  the  wind,  and  a 
covert  from  the  tempest ;  as  rivers  of  water  in  a  dry  place,  as 
the  shadow  of  a  great  rock  in  a  weary  land. 

Still  nigh  me,  O  my  Saviour,  stand, 
And  guard  in  fierce  temptation's  hour ; 

Support  by  thy  almighty  hand  ; 
Show  forth  in  me  thy  saving  power ; 

Still  be  thine  arm  my  sure  defence  ; 

Nor  earth  nor  hell  shall  pluck  me  thence.  # 

In  suffering  be  thy  love  my  peace  ; 

In  weakness  be  thy  love  my  power : 
And,  when  the  storms  of  life  shall  cease, 

O  Saviour,  in  that  trying  hour, 
In  death,  as  life,  be  thou  my  Guide, 
And  save  me,  who  for  me  hast  died. 

H  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

E. 

lOth.    He  is  called  Eternal  Life  in  1  John 
5 :  20. 

And  we  know  that  the  Son  of  God  is  come,  and  hath  given 
us  an  understanding,  that  we  may  know  him  that  is  true,  and 
we  are  in  him  that  is  true,  even  in  his  Son  Jesus  Christ.  This 
is  the  true  God,  and  eternal  life. 


96 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


If  my  immortal  Saviour  lives, 
Then  my  immortal  life  is  sure ; 

His  word  a  firm  foundation  gives  , 
Here  I  may  build  and  rest  secure. 

Here  let  my  faith  unshaken  dwell ; 

Forever  sure  the  promise  stands  ; 
Not  all  the  powers  of  earth  or  hell 

Can  e'er  dissolve  the  sacred  bands. 

E  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

R. 

11th.    He  is  called  Redeemer  in  Isa.  59 :  20. 

And  the  Redeemer  shall  come  to  Zion,  and  unto  them  that 
turn  from  transgression  in  Jacob,  saith  the  Lord. 

'Twas  great  to  speak  a  world  from  naught, 
'Twas  greater  to  redeem. 
For  I  know  that  my  Redeemer  liveth,  and  that  he  will  stand 
at  the  latter  day  upon  the  earth. 

He  lives !  the  great  Redeemer  lives ! 
What  joy  the  blest  assurance  gives ! 
And  now  before  his  Father,  God, 
He  pleads  the  merits  of  his  blood. 

Repeated  crimes  awake  our  fears, 
And  justice  armed  with  frowns  appears ; 
But  in  the  Saviour's  lovely  face 
Sweet  mercy  smiles,  and  all  is  peace. 

R  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

O. 

12tli.    He  is  called  the  Only  Begotten  in 
Johnl:  14. 

And  the  word  was  made  flesh  and  dwelt  among  us,  and  we 
beheld  his  glory,  as  of  the  Only  Begotten  full  of  grace  and 
truth. 


GENERAL  EXERCISES. 


97 


And  did  the  holy  and  the  just, 

The  Sovereign  of  the  skies, 
Stoop  down  to  wretchedness  and  dust, 

That  guilty  man  might  rise  ? 

Yes,  the  Redeemer  left  his  throne, 

His  radiant  throne  on  high,  — 
Surprising  mercy !  love  unknown !  — 

To  suffer,  bleed,  and  die. 

And  lo  a  voice  from  heaven,  saying.  This  is  my  beloved  Son 
in  whom  I  am  well  pleased.  Matt.  3 : 17. 

0  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

S. 

13th.    He  is  called  Saviour  in  Luke  2  :  10, 
11. 

And  the  angel  said  unto  them.  Fear  not :  for  behold,  I  bring 
you  good  tidings  of  great  joy,  which  shall  be  to  all  people : 

For  imto  you  is  bom  this  day  in  the  city  of  David,  a  Saviour, 
which  is  Christ  the  Lord. 

The  Saviour !  0  what  endless  charms 

Dwell  in  that  blissful  sound ! 
Its  influence  every  fear  disarms, 

And  spreads  delight  around. 

Here  pardon,  life,  and  joy  divine. 

In  rich  profusion  flow. 
For  guilty  rebels,  lost  in  sin. 

And  doomed  to  endless  woe. 

Kow  we  believe,  not  because  of  thy  saying ;  for  we  have 
heard  him  ourselves,  and  know  that  this  is  indeed  the  Christ, 
the  Saviour  of  the  world.  John  4:  42. 

S  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 


E. 

14th.    He  is  called  Ensign  in  Isa.  11 :  10. 


98 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


And  in  that  day  there  shall  be  a  root  of  Jesse,  r^hich  shall 
stand  for  an  ensign  of  the  people ;  to  it  shall  the  gentiles  seek ; 
and  his  rest  shall  be  glorious. 

He  is  the  light  of  men : 

His  doctrine  life  imparts : 
O,  may  we  feel  its  quickening  power 

To  warm  and  cheer  our  hearts. 

E  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

O. 

15tli.    He  is  called  Off-spring  of  David  in 
Rev.  22  :  16. 

I  am  the  root  and  Offspring  of  David,  and  the  bright  and 
morning  star, 

'Tis  the  long-expected  Saviour, 
David's  Son  and  David's  Lord, 

Sacrificed  to  bring  us  favor; 
'Tis  a  true  and  faithful  word. 

O  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

F. 

16th.    He  is  called  a  Foundation  in  Isa.  28 : 
16. 

Therefore  thus  saith  the  Lord  God,  Behold  I  lay  in  Zion  for  a 
foundation,  a  stone,  a  tried  stone,  a  precious  corner  stone,  a  sure 
foundation ;  he  that  belie veth  shall  not  make  haste. 

Behold  the  sure  foundation  stone, 

Which  God  in  Zion  lays, 
To  build  our  heavenly  hopes  upon, 

And  his  eternal  praise. 

The  foolish  builders,  scribe  and  priest 

Reject  it  with  disdain ; 
Tet  on  this  rock  the  church  shall  rest. 

And  envy  rage  in  vain. 

F  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 


GENERAL  EXERCISES.  99 


S. 

17th.    He  is  called  a  Shepherd  in  John  10  : 
11. 

I  am  the  good  shepherd ;  the  good  shepherd  giveth  his  life  for 
the  sheep. 

While  my  Redeemer's  near, 

My  Shepherd  and  my  Guide, 
I  bid  farewell  to  every  fear ; 

My  wants  are  all  supplied. 

To  ever-fragrant  meads, 

Where  rich  abundance  grows, 
His  gracious  hand  indulgent  leads, 

And  guards  my  sweet  repose. 

Dear  Shepherd,  if  I  stray, 

My  wandering  feet  restore ; 
And  guard  me  with  thy  watchful  eye, 

And  let  me  rove  no  more. 

I  am  the  good  shepherd,  and  know  my  sheep,  and  am  known 
of  mine. 

As  the  Father  knoweth  me,  even  so  know  I  the  Father ;  and  I 
lay  down  my  life  for  the  sheep.   John  10:  14, 15. 

S  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

H. 

18th.    He  is  called  the  Head  of  the  Church 
inEph.  6:  23,  30. 

Christ  is  the  head  of  the  church ;  and  he  is  the  saviour  of  the 
body. 

For  we  are  members  of  his  body,  of  his  flesh,  and  of  his 
bones. 

Is  he  the  Head  ?  each  member  lives. 
And  owns  the  vital  power  he  gives ; 
The  saints  below  and  saints  above, 
Joined  by  his  spirit  and  his  love 
And  he  is  the  head  of  the  body,  the  church.— Col.  1 : 18. 

H  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 


100  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


A. 

19th.    He  is  called  our  Advocate  in  1  John 
2:1. 

And  if  any  man  sin,  we  have  an  advocate  with  the  Father, 
Jesus  Christ  the  righteous. 

Our  advocate  with  God, 

He  undertakes  our  cause. 
And  spreads  through  all  the  earth  ahroad 

The  triumph  of  his  cross. 

Extol  his  kingly  power ; 

Adore  th'  exalted  Son, 
Who  died,  but  lives,  to  die  no  more, 

High  on  his  Father's  throne. 

A  is  placed  on  the  Arch, 

R. 

20th.    He  is  called  a  Bock  in  1  Cor.  10 :  4. 

And  did  all  drink  the  same  spiritual  drink ;  for  they  drank 
of  the  spiritual  Eockj  that  followed  them ;  and  that  Rock  was 
Christ. 

Is  he  a  Rock?  how  firm  he  proves ; 
The  Rock  of  Ages  never  moves  ; 
Yet  the  sweet  streams  that  from  him  flow. 
Attend  us  all  the  desert  through. 

For  who  is  God  save  the  Lord  I  or  who  is  a  rock  save  our 
God?   Psa.  18:31. 

R  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

O. 

21st.    He  is  called  the  holy  One  in  Mark  1 : 
24. 

Let  us  alone ;  what  have  we  to  do  with  thee,  thou  Jesus  of 
Nazareth?  art  thou  come  to  destroy  us?  I  know  thee  who  thou 
art  the  Holy  One  of  God. 


GENERAL  EXERCISES.  101 


Among  a  thousand  harps  and  songs, 

Jesus,  the  God,  exalted  reigns : 
His  sacred  name  fills  all  their  tongues, 

And  echoes  through  the  heavenly  plains. 

Neither  wilt  thou  suffer  thy  Holy  One  to  see  corruption. 
Acts.  2 :  27. 

0  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

N. 

22nd.    He  is  called  the  Nazarene  in  Matt. 
2:  22. 

And  he  came  and  dwelt  in  a  city  called  Nazareth :  that  it 
might  be  fulfilled  which  was  spoken  by  the  prophets,  He  shall 
be  called  a  Nazarene. 

Behold  the  Prince  of  Peace, 

The  chosen  of  the  Lord, 
God's  well-beloYed  Son,  fulfils 

The  sure,  prophetic  word. 

No  royal  pomp  adorns 

This  King  of  righteousness : 
And  meekness,  patience,  truth,  and  love. 

Compose  his  princely  dress. 

N  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

Supt.  We  now  have  one  of  the  titles  of 
Christ  which  we  propose  to  form,  our  motto 
reading  :  Jesus, — The  Rose  of  Sharon.  Now, 
can  any  one  tell  us,  how  Jesus  is  like  the 
Rose? 


23rd.    The  Rose  is  the  fairest  and  best  of 


102  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


flowers  and  possess  traits  which  we  all  love 
and  admire.  So  Jesus  is  the  fairest  and 
best  of  men,  and  his  life  and  character  calls 
forth  our  greatest  admiration. 

"  In  Sharon's  lovely  Rose, 
Immortal  beauties  shine ; 
Its  sweet  refreshing  fragrance  shows 
Its  origin  divine. 

How  blooming  and  how  fair! 

O  may  my  happy  breast 
This  lovely  rose  forever  wear 
And  be  supremely  blest.** 

Singing.  "  Beautiful  Rose."  Sappy 
Voices,  p.  61. 

T. 

24th.    Jesus  is  called   the  True  Light  in 
John  1 :  9. 

That  was  the  true  Light,  which  lighteth  every  man  that 
Cometh  into  the  world. 

Thou  art  the  truth. ;  thy  word  alone 

True  wisdom  can  impart ; 
Thou,  only,  canst  instruct  the  mind ; 

And  purify  the  heart. 

T  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

H. 

25th.    He  is  called  our  Hope  in  1  Tim.  1 :  1. 

Our  Saviour,  and  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  which  is  our  hope  : 


GENERAL  EXERCISES.  103 


"  It  is  the  hope,  the  blessed  hope, 
Which  Jesus  Christ  has  given ; 
The  hope  when  days  and  weeks  are  past, 
We  all  shall  meet  in  heaven." 

H  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

E. 

26th.    He  is  called  our  Everlasting  Father 
in  Isa.  9 :  6. 

For  unto  us  a  child  is  bom,  unto  us  a  son  is  given :  and  the 
government  shall  be  upon  his  shoulder :  and  his  name  shall  be 
called  Wonderful,  Counsellor,  The  mighty  God,  The  everlasting 
Father,  The  Prince  of  Peace. 

A  friend  there  is —  your  voices  join. 

Ye  saints,  to  praise  his  name  — 
Whose  truth  and  kindness  are  divine. 

Whose  love's  a  constant  flame. 

When  most  we  need  his  helping  hand. 

This  Friend  is  always  near ; 
With  heaven  and  earth  at  his  command, 

He  waits  to  answer  prayer. 

E  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

L. 

27tli.    He  is  called  Lion  of  the  tribe  of  Ju- 
dah  in  Rev.  6:5. 

And  one  of  the  elders  saith  unto  me,  Weep  not :  behold,  the 
Lion  of  the  tribe  of  Judah,  the  Root  of  David,  hath  prevailed 
to  open  the  book,  and  to  loose  the  seven  seals  thereof. 

For  the  Lion  of  Judah  shall  break  every  chain, 
And  give  us  the  victory  again  and  again." 

L  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 


104  GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


I. 

28th.    He  is  called  Immanuel  in  Matt.  1 :  23. 

And  they  shall  call  his  name  Immanuel,  which  being  inter- 
preted is,  God  with  us. 

Hail,  the  holy  Prince  of  Peace ! 
Hail,  the  Sun  of  Righteousness  I 
Light  and  life  to  all  he  brings. 
Risen  with  healing  in  his  wings. 

Let  us,  then,  with  angels  sing, 
"  Glory  to  the  new-born  King ; 
Peace  on  earth  and  mercy  mild ; 
God  and  sinners  reconciled." 

I  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

li. 

29th.    He  is  called  the  Life  in  John  1 :  4. 

In  him  was  life ;  and  the  life  was  the  light  of  men. 

Thou  art  the  life ;  the  rending  tomb 

Proclaims  thy  conquering  arm ; 
And  those  who  put  their  trust  in  thee, 

Nor  death  nor  hell  shall  harm. 

Thou  art  the  way,  the  truth,  the  life ; 

Grant  us  to  know  that  way. 
That  truth  to  keep,  that  life  to  win, 

Which  leads  to  endless  day. 

Jesus  saith  unto  him,  I  am  the  way,  and  the  truth,  and  iha 
life  :  no  man  cometh  unto  the  Father,  but  by  me.   John  14 :  6. 

L  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

Y. 

30th.    He  is  called  the  Young  Child  in  Matt. 
2:  8. 


GENERAL  EXERCISES.  105 


And  he  sent  them  to  Bethlehem,  and  said,  Go,  and  search  dil- 
igently for  the  young  child ;  and  when  ye  have  found  him, 
bring  me  word  again,  that  I  may  come  and  worship  him  also. 

Brightest  and  best  of  the  sons  of  the  morning, 
Dawn  on  our  darkness,  and  lend  us  thine  aid ; 

Star  of  the  east,  the  horizon  adorning. 
Guide  where  the  infant  Redeemer  is  laid. 

Cold  on  his  cradle  the  dewdrops  are  shining ; 

Low  lies  his  head  with  the  beasts  of  the  stall ; 
Angels  adore  him,  in  slumber  reclining. 

Maker,  and  Monarch,  and  Saviour  of  all. 

Y  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

O. 

31st.    He  is  called  the  mighty  One  in  Luke 
3:  16. 

John  answered,  saying  unto  them  all,  I  indeed  baptize  you 
with  water ;  but  one  mightieth  than  I  cometh,  the  latchet  of 
whose  shoes  I  am  not  worthy  to  unloose. 

Hark !  th'  angelic  host  inquire, 

Who  is  he,  th'  almighty  King  ?  " 
Hark  again !  the  answering  choir 
Thus  in  strains  of 'triumph  sing  :  — 

"  He  whose  powerful  arm,  alone, 
On  his  foes  destruction  hurled  ; 

He  who  hath  the  victory  won ; 
He  who  saved  a  ruined  world  ;  — " 

0  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

F. 

32nd.    He  is  called  Forerunner  in  Heb.  6 : 
20. 

Whither  the  forerunner  is  for  us  entered,  even  Jesus,  made  a 
high  priest  for  ever  after  the  order  of  Melchizedeck. 


106  GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


"  Who  shall  up  to  that  abode 
Follow  in  the  Saviour's  train  ?  ** 

"  They  who  in  his  cleansing  blood 
Wash  away  each  guilty  stain ;  — 

"  They  whose  daily  actions  prove 

Steadfast  faith  and  holy  fear, 
Fervent  zeal  and  grateful  love  ; 

They  shall  dwell  forever  here.** 

F  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 


83d.    He  is  called  Tabernacle  in  Heb.  8  :  2. 

A  minister  of  the  sanctuarj'-,  and  of  the  true  tabernacle, 
which  the  Lord  pitched,  and  not  man. 

The  true  Messiah  now  appears ; 

The  types  are  all  withdrawn ; 
So  fly  the  shadows  and  the  stars 

Before  the  rising  dawn. 

"Forgive,"  he  cries,  "  forgive  their  sins, 

For  I  myself  have  died  ;  '* 
And  then  he  shows  his  opened  veins, 

And  pleads  his  wounded  side. 

T  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

H. 

84tli.    He  is  called  Heir  of  all  things  in  Heb. 
1:2. 

Hath  in  these  last  days  spoken  unto  us  by  his  Son,  whom  he 
hath  appointed  heir  of  all  things,  by  whom  also  he  made  the 
worlds. 

Now  for  a  tune  of  lofty  praise 

To  great  Jehovah's  equal  Son; 
Awake,  my  voice,  in  heavenly  lays, 

And  tell  the  wonders  he  hath  done. 


GENEEAL  EXERCISES. 


107 


Sing  how  he  left  the  worlds  of  light, 
And  those  bright  robes  he  wore  above ; 

How  swift  and  joyful  was  his  flight, 
On  wings  of  everlasting  love ! 

H  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 


E. 

85th.    He  is  called  Meet  in  Isa.  42  :  1. 

Behold  my  servant,  whom  I  uphold :  my  elect,  in  whom  my 
soul  delighteth. 


Sing  to  the  Lord,  ye  distant  lands, 

Ye  tribes  of  every  tongue  ; 
His  new-discovered  grace  demands 

A  new  and  nobler  song. 

Let  new  seraphic  joy  surprise 

The  islands  of  the  sea ; 
Ye  mountains,  sink  ;  ye  valleys,  rise  ; 

Prepare  the  Lord  his  way. 

E  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 


36th.    He  is  called  a  Vine  in  John  15  :  1,  2, 


I  am  the  true  vine,  and  my  Father  is  the  husbandman. 

Everj*-  branch  in  me  that  beareth  not  fruit,  he  taketh  away ; 
and  ev^ry  branch  that  beareth  fruit,  he  purgeth  it,  that  it  may 
bring  forth  more  fruit. 

Abide  in  me,  and  I  in  you.  As  the  branch  cannot  bear  fruit 
of  itself,  except  it  abide  in  the  vine ;  no  more  can  ye,  except  ye 
abide  in  me. 

I  am  the  vine,  ye  are  the  branches  :  He  that  abideth  in  me, 
and  I  in  him,  the  same  bringeth  forth  much  fruit;  for  without 
me  ye  can  do  nothing. 


V. 


4, 


5. 


108  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Vine  of  heaven,  thy  blood  supplies 
This  blest  cup  of  sacrifice : 
Lord,  thy  wounds  our  healing  give ; 
To  thy  cross  we  look  and  live. 

Day  by  day  with  strength  supplied, 
Through  the  life  of  Him  who  died, 
Lord  of  life,  O,  let  us  be 
Rooted,  grafted,  built  on  thee. 

V  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

A. 

37th.    He  is  called  Almighty  in  Rev.  1 :  8. 

I  am  Alpha  and  Omega,  the  beginning  and  the  ending,  soith 
the  Lord,  which  is,  and  which  was,  and  which  is  to  come,  the 
Almighty. 

Jesus,  hail !  enthroned  in  glory, 

There  forever  to  abide : 
All  the  heavenly  host  adore  thee, 

Seated  at  thy  Father's  side. 

There  for  sinners  thou  art  pleading : 
There  thou  dost  our  place  prepare ; 

Ever  for  us  interceding, 
Till  in  glory  we  appear. 

A  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

L. 

38tli.    He  is  called  Lamh  of  Grod  in  John 
1:29. 

The  next  day  John  seeth  Jesus  coming  unto  him,  and  saith. 
Behold  the  Lamb  of  God,  which  taketh  away  the  sin  of  the 
world  I 

Glory  to  God  on  high ! 
Let  heaven  and  earth  reply ; 
Praise  ye  his  name ; 


GENERAL  EXERCISES.  109 


His  love  and  grace  adore, 
Who  all  our  sorrows  bore ; 
And  sing  forevermore, 
"Worthy  the  Lamb." 

L  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

Ii. 

89tli.    He  is  called  a  Law-giver  in  Jas.  :4 
12. 

There  is  one  lawgiver,  who  is  able  to  save  and  to  destroy : 

Jesus,  my  truth,  my  way, 

My  sure,  unerring  light, 
On  thee  my  feeble  soul  I  stay. 

Which  thou  wilt  lead  aright. 

My  wisdom,  and  my  guide, 

My  counsellor,  thou  art ; 
0,  never  let  me  leave  thy  side, 

Or  from  thy  paths  depart. 

L  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 

E. 

40tli.    He  is  called  Eternal  Life  in  1  John 
1:  2. 

(For  the  life  was  manifested,  and  we  have  seen  it,  and  bear 
witness,  and  show  unto  you  that  eternal  life,  which  was  with 
the  Father,  and  was  manifested  unto  us :) 
Not  with  our  mortal  eyes 

Have  we  beheld  the  Lord  ; 
Yet  we  rejoice  to  hear  his  name, 
And  love  him  in  his  word. 

On  earth  we  want  the  light 

Of  our  Redeemer's  face ; 
Yet,  Lord,  our  inmost  thoughts  delight 

To  dwell  upon  thy  grace. 

E  is  placed  on  the  Arch. 


110  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Y. 

41st.    He  is  sometimes  called    Yea  and 
Amen  as  in  2  Cor.  1 :  19,  20. 

For  the  Son  of  God,  Jesus  Christ,  who  was  pre,ached  among 
you  by  us,  even  by  me  and  Silvanus  and  Timotheus,  was  not 
yea  and  nay,  but  in  him  was  yea. 

For  all  the  promises  of  God  in  him  are  yea,  and  in  him  Amen, 
unto  the  glory  of  God  by  us. 

The  promises  I  sing, 
Which  sovereign  love  hath  spoke, 

Nor  will  th'  eternal  King 
His  words  of  grace  revoke : 

Their  harmony  shall  sound 

Through  my  attentive  ears, 
When  thunders  cleave  the  ground, 

And  dissipate  the  spheres : 

Supt. :  Our  Motto  is  now  completed  — 
Jesus,  The  Rose  of  Sharon,  The  Lily  of  the 
Valley.  Can  any  one  tell  me  where  our 
Jesus  is  called  by  these  titles  ? 

42nd.    In  Songs  of  Solomon  2  :  1. 

I  am  the  Rose  of  Sharon,  and  the  Lily  of  the  Valley, 
Is  he  a  Rose  ?  not  Sharon  yields 
A  flower  so  fragrant  in  her  fields  ; 
Or  if  the  lA\y  he  assumes, 
The  Valleys  bless  the  rich  perfume. 

43rd. 

White  lilies  all  around  appear. 
And  each  his  glory  shows : 
The  Rose  of  Sharon  blossoms  here, 
The  fairest  flower  that  blows. 


GENERAL  EXERCISES. 


Ill 


School  and  Congregation  sing  : 

By  cool  Siloam's  shady  rill 

How  fair  the  lily  grows ! 
How  sweet  the  breath,  beneath  the  hill, 

Of  Sharon's  dewy  rose. 

By  cool  Siloam's  shady  rill 

The  Lily  must  decay ; 
The  rose,  that  blooms  beneath  the  hill, 

Must  shortly  fade  away. 


AN  AUTUMNAL  STORY. 


Directions.  —  This  ^'Autumnal  Story" 
is  designed  for  use  during  the  autumnal  sea- 
son of  the  year.  While  it  is  particularly 
adapted  to  the  Time  of  the  Falling  of  the 
Leaves,"  it  may  be  used  with  good  effect  at 
any  season.  The  exercise  is  divided  into 
six  different  parts  ;  the  subjects  of  these  parts 
are  to  be  announced  by  the  Superintendent, 
and  the  recitations  are  to  be  recited  by  the 
different  persons  to  whom  they  are  assigned, 
in  the  order  they  are  numbered. 

Decorations  of  autumn  leaves,  ferns, 
vines,  and  flowers,  will  add  much  to  the  in- 
terest of  the  occasion. 


115 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


THE  EXERCISE. 

Paet  I. — Autumnal  Days. 
1. 

"  Along  the  wayside  and  up  the  hills 
The  golden  rod  flames  in  the  sun ; 
The  blue-eyed  gentian  nods  good-bye 
To  the  sad  little  brooks  that  run  ; 
So  Summer's  done,  say  I, 
Summer's  done. 

In  yellowing  woods  the  chestnut  drops ; 
The  squirrel  gets  galore, 
Though  bright-eyed  lads  and  little  maida, 
Bob  him  of  half  his  store  ; 
So  Summer's  o'er,  say  I, 
Summer's  o'er. 

The  maple  in  the  swamps  begin 
To  flount  in  gold  and  red. 
And  in  the  elm  the  fire-bird's  nest 
Swings  empt}"  overhead  ; 

So  Summer's  dead,  say  I, 
Summer's  dead. 

The  barberry  hangs  her  jewels  out, 
And  guards  them  with  a  thorn : 
The  merry  farmer  boys  cut  down 
The  poor  old  dried  up  com  ; 
So  Summer's  gone,  say  I, 
Summer's  gone. 

The  swallows  and  the  bobolinks 
Aie  gone  this  many  a  day, 
But  in  the  morning  still  you  hear. 
The  scolding  swaggering  jay  ; 
So  Summer's  away,  say  I, 
Summer's  away. 


AN  AUTUMNAL  STORY.  117 


A  wonderful  glory  fills  the  air, 

And  big  and  bright  is  the  sun  ; 

A  loving  hand  for  the  whole  brown  earth, 

A  garment  of  beauty  has  spun  ; 

But  for  all  that,  Summer's  done,  say  I, 
Summer's  done." 

2. — While  the  earth  remaineth,  seedtime 
and  harvest,  and  cold  and  heat,  and  summer 
and  winter,  and  day  and  night,  shall  not 
cease. — Gen.  8  :  22. 

Blessed  be  the  name  of  God,  for  ever  and 
ever;  for  wisdom  and  might  are  his. 

And  he  changeth  the  times  and  the  sea- 
sons.—Dan.  2 :  20,  21. 

3. 

Standing  upon  this  mountain  side  you  look 
Far  down  and  round  on  forest  beyond  forest, 
Sweep  through  vales  profound,  and  up  steep  hills, 
Where  every  leaf  by  Autumn's  alchemy 
Is  changed  to  some  rich  gem. 

The  maple  here 
Shoots  up  its  ruby  spire,  and  there  the  oak 
Stands  all  transmuted  into  burnished  gold  ; 
The  woodbine  hangs  festoons  of  purple  there 
Around  the  yellow  sycamore,  and  here 
A  shower  of  amethysts  and  sapphires  bright, 
Suspended  glitters  on  the  drapery 
Of  the  majestic  elm.   How  glorious  all 
Beneath  this  unobscured  October  sun. 
And  now  a  breeze  sets  every  tint  in  motion  ; 
Lakes,  cataracts,  and  streams  of  painted  leaves 


118  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 

Are  heaving,  flowing  in  admiring  light. 
The  wild  birds  sing  as  if  their  sense  partook 
The  rapture  of  the  poet,  and  his  speech 
Essays  to  utter  the  unspeakable. 

4. — To  every  thing  there  is  a  season,  and 
a  time  to  every  purpose  under  the  heaven. 

A  time  to  be  born,  and  a  time  to  die  ;  a 
time  to  plant,  and  a  time  to  pluck  up  that 
which  is  planted. — Eccle.  3  :  1,  2. 

5. 

"  Purple,  and  gold  and  russet, 
Ruby,  vermilion  and  green ; 
Now  comes  with  all  its  colors, 
October  to  paint  the  scene. 
The  winds  are  his  mighty  brushes, 
His  palette  the  crystal  skies, 
And  his  paints  are  the  flames  and  flushes 
Of  sunset  and  sunrise.'' 

6. — The  hay  appeareth,  and  the  tender 
grass  sheweth  itself,  and  herbs  of  the  moun- 
tains are  gathered. — Prov.  27  :  25. 

It  is  not  for  you  to  know,  the  times  or 
the  seasons,  which  the  Father  hath  put  in 
his  own  power.— Acts  1 :  7. 

"  The  mellow  year  is  hastening  to  its  close ; 
The  little  birds  have  almost  sung  their  last, 
Their  small  notes  twitter  in  the  dreary  blast  — 
That  shrill-piped  harbinger  of  early  snows. 
The  patient  beauty  of  the  scentless  rose 


AN  AUTUMNAL  STORY.  119 


Oft  with  the  morn's  hoar  frost,  quaintly  glazed; 
Hangs  a  pale  mourner  for  the  summer  past 
And  makes  a  little  summer  where  it  grows. 
In  the  chill  sunbeam  of  the  faint  brief  day, 
The  dusky  waters  shudder  as  they  shine ; 
The  russet  leaves  obstruct  the  straggling  way 
Of  oozy  brooks,  which  no  deep  banks  define, 
And  the  gaunt  woods,  in  ragged,  scant  array, 
Wrap  their  old  limbs,  with  somber  ivy  twine." 

Singing:  "Behold  the  harvest  draweth 
near."    Royal  Diadem^  p.  140. 

Part  II. — The  story  of  the  Autum- 
nal Days. 

1. 

The  beauty  of  the  summer  time, 

Confessing  that  her  reign  is  o'er, 
Decked  in  her  gayest  robes  of  state, 

Is  smiling  back  to  us  once  more. 

Her  court  she  holds  with  shining  train 

Along  the  quiet  river  side ; 
And  with  her  golden  splendor  filled, 

The  dim  old  woods  are  glorified. 

"We  feel  her  power  in  every  pulse, 

We  read  her  praises  in  the  trees. 
As  o'er  us,  like  a  conquering  queen. 

She  waves  her  banners  in  the  breeze. 

While  watching  her  triumphant  tread. 
We  feel  the  spell  and  own  the  sway, 

And  yet  we  grieve  as  we  behold 
4-  glory  that  must  pass  awa^. 


120 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


The  brightest  robe  that  nature  wears 
Will  soon  be  lying  brown  ajid  sere, 

And  on  us  beam  with  waning  light, 
The  last  smile  of  the  dying  year. 

Yet  with  the  parting  comes  the  pledge, 
The  dawn  of  peace,  the  end  of  strife, 

And  like  a  benediction  falls  — 

"The  Resurrection  and  the  Life." 

2.  — Man  that  is  born  of  woman  is  of  few 
days  and  full  of  trouble.  He  cometh  forth 
like  a  flower,  and  is  cut  down  ;  he  fleeth  also 
as  a  shadow,  and  continueth  not.  —  Job  14  : 
1,  2. 

3.  — Seeing  his  days  are  determined,  the 
number  of  his  months  are  with  thee,  thou 
hast  appointed  his  bounds  that  he  cannot 
pass. 

Turn  from  him,  that  he  may  rest,  till  he 
shall  accomplish,  as  a  hireling,  his  day. — 
Job  14:  5,  6. 

4.  — For  there  is  hope  of  a  tree  if  it  be  cut 
down,  that  it  will  sprout  again,  and  that  the 
tender  branch  thereof  will  not  cease. 

Though  the  root  thereof  wax  old  in  the 
earth,  and  the  stock  thereof  die  in  the 
ground. — Job  14  :  7,  8. 

5.  — Yet  through  the  scent  of  water  it  will 
bud,  and  bring  forth  boughs  like  a  plant. 


AN  AUTUMNAL  STORY.  121 


But  man  dieth  and  wasteth  away  ;  yea, 
man  giveth  up  the  ghost,  and  where  is  he  ? — 
Job  14:  9,  10. 

6.  — As  the  waters  fail  from  the  sea,  and 
the  flood  decayeth  and  drieth  up. 

So  man  heth  down  and  riseth  not :  till  the 
heavens  be  no  more,  they  shall  not  awake, 
nor  be  raised  out  of  their  sleep. — Job  14 : 
11,  12. 

7.  — If  a  man  die  shall  he  live  again  ?  all 
the  days  of  my  appointed  time  will  I  wait, 
till  my  change  come. — Job  14 :  14. 

8.  — The  waters  wear  the  stones;  thou 
washest  away  the  things  which  grow  out  of 
the  dust  of  the  earth :  and  thou  destroyeth 
the  hope  of  man. 

Thou  prevaileth  for  ever  against  him,  and 
he  passeth :  thou  changest  his  countenance, 
and  sendest  him  away. 

His  sons  come  to  honor  and  he  knoweth 
it  not ;  and  they  are  brought  low,  but  he  per- 
ceiveth  it  not  of  them.  — Job  14  :  19,  20,  21. 

"  The  melancholj'  days  are  come,  the  saddest  of  the  year, 
Of  wailing  winds  and  naked  woods,  and  meadows  brown  and 
sere ; 

Heaped  in  the  hollow  of  the  grove,  the  withered  leaves  lie 
dead. 

They  rustle  to  the  eddying  gust,  and  to  the  rabbits  tread  ; 
The  robin  and  the  wren  are  flown,  and  from  the  shrubs  the  jay 


122  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


And  from  the  wood  top  calls  the  crow,  through  all  the  gloomy 
day. 

Where  are  the  flowers,  the  fair  young  flowers,  that  lately  sprang 
and  stood, 

In  brighter  light  and  softer  airs,  a  beauteous  sisterhood  ? 
Alas,  they  all  are  in  their  graves,  the  gentle  race  of  flowers 
Are  lying  in  their  lowly  beds,  with  the  good  and  fair  of  ours ; 
The  rain  is  falling  where  they  lie,  but  the  cold  October  rain 
Calls  not  from  out  the  gloomy  earth,  the  lovely  ones  again. 

The  wind  flower  and  the  violet,  they  perished  long  ago, 
And  the  briar  rose  and  the  orchid  died  amid  the  summer  glow ; 
But  on  the  hill  the  golden  rod,  and  the  aster  in  the  wood. 
And  the  yellow  sun  flower  by  the  brook  in  autumn  beauty 
stood, 

Till  fell  the  frost  from  the  clear  cold  heaven,  as  falls  the  plague 
on  man ; 

And  the  brightness  of  their  smile  was  gone  from  upland,  glade 
and  glen. 

And  now  when  comes  the  calm  mild  days,  as  still  such  days 
will  come. 

To  call  the  squirrel  and  the  bee  from  out  their  winter  home, 
When  the  sound  of  dropping  nuts  is  heard,  though  all  the  trees 
are  still, 

And  twinkle  in  the  smoky  light,  the  waters  of  the  rill. 
The  south  wind  searches  for  the  flowers,  whose  fragrance  late 
he  bore. 

And  sighs  to  find  them  in  the  woods  and  by  the  stream  no 
more. 


Singing.  "  I  need  Thee  every  hour.' 
Winnowed  Hymns,  p.  1. 


AN  AUTUMNAL  STORY. 


Part  III.— The  Falling  Leaves. 
1. 

Dropping,  dropping, 
Crimson,  and  yellow,  and  red, 
Sighing  so  softly  and  sadly 
In  the  trees  over  my  head. 
One  by  one  they  come  fluttering 
Or  fall  in  a  tremulous  shower, 
Scarlet,  and  amber,  and  purple, 
Dyed  by  an  unseen  power. 

2. 

"  Falling,  falling, 

Down,  down,  in  the  purling  stream, 
The  lovely  summer  is  passing 

Away  like  a  happy  dream. 
And  the  water  is  gaily  dancing 

With  the  dying  leaves  on  its  breast, 
Bearing  them  onward,  onward 

Away  to  eternal  rest. 

3. 

"  Whispering,  whispering. 

Words  of  a  long  farewell. 
Nestling  in  heaps  together. 

To  sleep  in  the  woody  dell. 
Dying  in  wondrous  beauty, 

Murmuring  sad  as  they  go, 
O,  beautiful,  beautiful  leaflets. 

We  have  loved  and  admired  you  so* 

4. 

"Dying,  dyings 
And  leaving  the  forest  trees  bare, 
The  voice  of  imseen  spirits 
I  seem  to  hear  in  the  air. 


124  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Farewell,  beautiful  leaflets, 

The  wind  is  a  merciless  foe, 
And  every  heart  that  knows  of  gladness, 

Also  deep  sorrow  must  know." 

5.  — In  that  day  a  man  shall  cast  his  idols 
of  silver  and  his  idols  of  gold,  which  they 
made. — Isa.  2  :  20. 

6.  — As  the  leaf  falleth  off  from  the  vine, 
and  as  a  falling  fig  from  the  fig  tree. — Isa. 
34:  4. 

7.  — He  took  also  of  the  seed  of  the  land, 
and  planted  it  in  a  fruitful  field ;  he  placed 
it  by  great  waters,  and  set  it  as  a  willow 
tree.— Ezek.  17  :  5. 

8.  — It  was  planted  iii  a  good  soil  by  great 
waters,  that  it  might  bring  forth  branches, 
and  that  it  might  bear  fruit,  that  it  might  be 
a  goodly  vine. — Ezek.  17  :  8. 

9.  — Say  thou.  Thus  saith  the  Lord  God  ; 
Shall  it  prosper  ?  shall  he  not  pull  up  the 
roots  thereof,  and  cut  off  the  fruit  thereof, 
that  it  wither  ?  it  shall  wither  in  all  the 
leaves  of  her  spring,  even  without  great 
power  or  many  people  to  pluck  it  up  by  the 
roots  thereof. — Ezek.  17  :  9. 

10. 

"He  comes,  he  comes  —  the  Frost  spirit  comes  I    You  may  trac€ 
his  footsteps  now, 


AN  AUTUMNAL  STOET. 


125 


On  the  naked  woods,  and  blasted  fields,  and  the  brown  hills 
withered  brow. 

He  has  smitten  the  leaves  of  the  gray  old  trees,  where  the 

pleasant  green  came  forth. 
And  the  winds  which  follow  wherever  he  goes,  have  shaken 

them  down  to  earth.'* 

11. 

"  O'er  the  wild  waste  the  autumnal  leaf  careers : 
Nor  vale,  nor  mountain  now  is  ripe  with  flowers ; 
Nature's  fair  brow  the  snow  of  winter  sears. 
And  all  but  Hope  hath  fled  her  once  green  bowers." 

12. 

"  And  why  thus  lonely  lingers  she,  when  all 
The  glorious  gifts  of  summer  are  no  more  V  " 

13. 

"  Her  foot  already  treads  Spring's  leafy  hall 
Her  eyes  see  sunbeams  gild  the  distant  shore." 

Singing  : —  "  The  Leaves  around  us  fall- 
ing."   Sabbath  Songs^  p.  125. 

Part  IV. — The  Lesson  of  the  Fall- 
ing Leaves. 

"  Only  a  day  since  the  trees  were  seen, 
Their  foliage  all  of  the  loveliest  green ; 
A  single  night !  a  touch  of  frost ! 
Alas !  the  life  of  the  leaves  is  lost. 
And  the}^  whisper  sadly  and  softly  sigh, 
Growing  beautiful,  only  to  die. 


126 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Showers  of  leaves  from  the  forest's  crown 
Have  broken  away  and  are  tumbling  down ; 
Yellow  and  purple,  crimson  and  gold, 
Red,  pink  and  scarlet,  fold  upon  fold, 
They  gather  themselves  in  beautiful  sheaves, 
Silentl}^  weeping !  these  dying  leaves. 

See,  in  the  light  of  the  morning  sun, 

What  the  withering  touch  of  the  frost  has  done ; 

Clothed  the  trees  in  new  robes  so  bright ; 

The  landscape  changed  in  a  single  night. 

Under  the  light  of  the  starry  sheen 

Nature  painted  this  wonderful  scene. 

Gather  them  up  with  the  tenderest  care ; 
Each  hue  that  is  seen  in  the  rainbow  is  there. 
Death  was  needed  before  we  found 
That  the  tinted  leaves,  now  lying  round 
Were  full  of  glories  not  brought  to  light 
Till  after  their  life  had  taken  flight.'* 

2.  — Lord,  thou  hast  been  our  dwelling 
place  in  all  generations. 

Before  the  mountains  were  brought  forth, 
or  ever  thou  hadst  formed  the  earth  and  the 
world,  even  from  everlasting  to  everlasting, 
thou  art  God.— Psa.  90  :  1,  2. 

3.  — Thou  turnest  man  to  destruction,  and 
sayest,  Return,  ye  children  of  men. 

For  a  thousand  years  in  thy  sight  are  but 
as  yesterday  when  it  is  past,  and  as  a  watch 
in  the  night.— Psa.  90  :  3,  4. 

4.  — Thou  carriest  them  away  as  with  a 
flood ;  they  are  as  a  sleep  ;  in  the  morning 
they  are  like  grass  which  groweth  up. 


AN  AUTUMNAL  STORY.  127 


In  the  morning  it  flourisheth  and  groweth 
up  ;  in  the  evening  it  is  cut  down  and  with- 
ereth.— Psa.  90  :  5,  6. 

5.  — For  we  are  consumed  by  thine  anger, 
and  by  thy  wrath  are  we  troubled. 

Thou  hast  set  our  iniquities  before  thee, 
our  secret  sins  in  the  light  of  thy  counte- 
nance.— Psa.  90 :  7,  8. 

6.  — For  all  our  days  are  passed  away  in 
thy  wrath ;  we  spend  our  years  as  a  tale  that 
is  told. 

The  days  of  our  years  are  threescore  years 
and  ten  ;  and  if  by  reason  of  strength  they 
be  fourscore  years,  yet  is  their  strength  labor 
and  sorrow  ;  for  it  is  soon  cut  off  and  we  fly 
away.— Ps.  90 :  9,  10. 

7.  — Who  knoweth  the  power  of  thine  an- 
ger ?  even  according  to  thy  fear,  so  is  thy 
wrath. 

So  teach  us  to  number  our  days,  that  we 
may  apply  our  hearts  unto  wisdom. — Psa. 
90 :  11,  12. 

8. 

"  Beautiful  leaves !  cast  loose  by  the  breeze, 
And  filling  the  air  as  they  float  from  the  trees : 
Gracefully  sinking  down  they  come ; 
Gather  them  up  and  carry  them  home  ; 
Leaves  of  the  ivy  and  oak  are  there, 
Mixed  with  the  maple,  cull  them  with  care. 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Leaves  from  the  elm  and  leaves  from  the  vine 

Mingle  their  colors ;  all  together  combine 
In  garlands  of  nmnberless  shades  ; 
But  remember  this  beauty  all  fades  ; 
These  forest  leaves,  so  delicate  now, 
Wither,  though  placed  on  the  fairest  brow. 

Visions  of  splendor !  these  forest  trees  grand. 
When  autumn  frosts  spread  far  over  the  land. 
Seen  in  the  sun's  great  golden  light, 
That  heightens  color  and  makes  them  bright, 
The  leaves  grow  brilliant ;  the  forest  gems 
Cover  the  trees  like  great  diadems. 

Come,  gather  the  leaves,  come  one,  come  all, 
The  faster  we  gather,  the  faster  they  fall ; 
The  forest  trees  are  dressed  thus  gay 
Only  to  cast  their  mantle  away ; 
Ah  do  not  forget  that  the  forest  grieves 
The  tears  it  sheds  are  beautifiil  leaves." 

9. 

The  first  falling  leaves  of  September 
Are  fluttering  down  toward  earth, 

As  if  they  would  bid  us  remember 
That  death  follows  quickly  on  birth. 

So  recently  moving  in  beauty. 
Responding  to  each  summer  breath, 

Now  falling  in  humble  leaf  duty. 
To  teach  us  the  lessons  of  death. 

They  whisper  and  sigh  as  they  tremble. 
As  if  to  their  comrades  to  say, 
"  'Tis  useless  for  us  to  dissemble, 

You  shortly  must  follow  this  way. 

"  The  bright  days  of  summer  are  over. 
And  we  who  hung  high  in  our  prime 

Have  been  but  the  first  to  discover 
That  all  leaves  must  wither  in  time. 


AN  AUTUMNAL  STORY.  129 


**  The  frost  soon  will  give  you  its  warning, 
By  chilling  your  veins  withjhe  cold, 

Your  green  tints  of  summer  all  turning 
To  crimson,  and  purple,  and  gold. 

**  In  those  brilliant  hues  though  you  glory, 

Your  lot  is  the  fate  of  us  all ; 
Repeating  the  often-told  story. 

That  leaves  in  their  season  must  fall.*' 

Singing: — ''The  Shining  Shore." 

My  days  are  gliding  swiftly  by. 
And  I,  a  pilgrim  stranger,  &c. 

Part  V. — ''We  do  fade  as  the  Leaf." 
1. 

"  Only  the  leaves !  yet  they  sigh  and  weep. 
Ere  they  fall  to  the  ground  and  quietly  sleep, 
Quietly  sleep,  in  colors  new, 
Beneath  the  touch  of  the  morning  dew ; 
Not  the  morning  dew,  nor  sun,  nor  rain. 
Can  restore  to  leaves,  lost  life  again. 

Softly  and  silently,  on  the  ground. 
How  they  nestle  together,  without  a  sound! 
Without  a  sound?   No,  forest  leaves 
Never  can  fall  but  the  forest  grieves  ; 
Listen  and  hear  its  sad  moan  and  wail, 
Rocking  its  trees  in  the  autumn  gale. 

Lifting  their  voices,  they  moan  and  sigh,  — 

"  O,  why  do  our  leaves  when  most  beautiful  die? 

And  stars  and  skies  the  answer  sing, 

"  To  live  again  in  the  coming  spring." 

While  the  leaves  are  all  lying  asleep  below 

Have  formed  a  couch  for  the  eoming  snow. 


130  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Many  a  heart  now  loving  and  warm 
Will  be  sadly  tried  by  life's  gathering  storm; 
Hopes  that  are  brightest  still  may  fade, 
And  cherished  friends  in  the  grave  be  laid ; 
But  the  forest  leaves  and  stars  will  sing : 
"  Only  to  live  in  the  coming  spring.'* 

2.  — For  all  flesh  is  as  grass,  and  all  the 
glory  of  man  as  the  flower  of  grass  ;  the  grass 
withereth,  and  the  flower  thereof  fadeth 
away. — 1  Peter,  1 :  24. 

3.  — Are  not  my  days  few  ?  cease  then,  and 
let  me  alone,  that  I  may  take  comfort  a  little. 

Before  I  go  whence  I  shall  not  return, 
even  to  the  land  of  darkness  and  the  shadow 
of  death. 

A  land  of  darkness  as  darkness  itself ;  and 
of  the  shadow  of  death,  without  any  order, 
and  where  the  light  is  as  darkness. — Job  10  : 
20,  22. 

4. 

WHAT  THE  LEAYES  SAY, 

"  Only  a  few  short  months  ago, 
And  we  were  fresh  and  green, 
And  swinging  from  the  topmost  bough, 
The  merriest  leaves  e'er  seen. 
The  sweet  birds  built  their  tiny  nests 
Beneath  our  pleasant  shade, 
And  smig  away  so  cheerfully. 
When  their  pretty  homes  were  made. 

But  now  we've  changed  our  pi-etty  dress, 
For  dark  and  russet  brown, 


AN  AUTUMNAL  STORY.  131 


And  at  the  autumn's  chilling  wind 
We're  rustling,  rustling  down. 
The  sweet  birds  all  have  flown  away, 
The  flowers  have  dropped  their  heads. 
Soon  all  that's  bright  and  beautiful, 
Will  be  among  the  dead." 

5.  — I  loathe  it ;  I  would  not  live  always ; 
let  me  alone ;  for  my  days  are  vanity. 

What  is  man,  that  thou  shouldest  magnify 
him  ?  and  that  thou  shouldest  set  thy  heart 
upon  him  ? 

And  that  thou  shouldest  visit  him  every 
morning,  and  try  him  every  moment. — Job 
7 :  16-18. 

6.  — Behold,  thou  hast  made  my  days  as  a 
hand-breadth  ;  and  my  age  is  as  nothing  be- 
fore thee  ;  verily  every  man  at  his  best  state 
is  altogether  vanity.  Selah. 

Surely  every  man  walketh  in  a  vain  show ; 
surely  they  are  disquieted  in  vain ;  he  heap- 
eth  up  riches,  and  knoweth  not  who  shall 
gather  them. — Psa.  39  :  5,  6. 

7.  — Remember  how  short  my  time  is; 
wherefore  hast  thou  made  all  men  in  vain  ? 

What  man  is  he  that  liveth  and  shall  not 
see  death  ?  shall  he  deliver  his  soul  from  the 
hand  of  the  grave.— Ps.  89  :  47,  48. 


132  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


8. 

Nothing  but  leaves !    When  the  Master  shall  come. 

To  visit  his  vineyard  below ; 

No  fruit  of  the  spirit,  no  life  work  of  love, 

Can  it  be  that  our  life  shall  be  so  ? 

9. 

Nothing  but  leaves !   And  the  Master  will  come 
For  fruitage  when  autumn  is  here  ; 

But  the  bough  of  life's  tree  will  yield  nothing  but  leaveSi 
And  these  yellow  and  sere. 

10. 

Nothing  but  leaves !    All  the  soft  summer  showers, 
And  the  warm  genial  sunshine  in  vain, 
The  bright  buds,  the  blossoms  of  hope 
Are  gone,  and  they  come  not  again. 

11. 

Nothing  but  leaves !    Opportunities  gone, 
Aspirations  all  quenched  at  their  birth ; 
The  higher,  the  nobler,  the  holier  life 
Buried  up  neath  the  rubbish  of  strife. 

12. 

Nothing  but  leaves !    The  glad  summer's  gone, 
And  the  autumn  is  coming  e'en  now ; 
Alas,  for  the  tree,  it  shall  wither  away, 
God  looketh  for  fruit  from  each  bough. 

13. 

Nothing  but  leaves !    A  life  lived  in  vain. 
And  0,  how  the  good  Master  grieves. 
To  find  that  for  all  he  hath  suffered  for  us. 
We  come  laden  with  nothing  but  leaves. 

14. 

Nothing  but  leaves !    O,  God,  shall  it  be. 
That  this  life  so  fruitless  be  found  ? 
No,  graft  us  anew  with  thy  spirit  of  love. 
For  without  it  we  cumber  the  ground. 


AN  AUTUMNAL  STORY, 


Singing  : — Nothing  but  Leaves." 
/  Voices^  p.  121. 

Part  VI. —  Passing  Away. 
1. 

It  is  written  on  the  rose 

In  it's  glory's  full  array; 
Read  what  those  buds  disclose^ 
"  Passing  away." 

It  is  written  on  the  skies 

Of  the  sost  blue  summer  day ; 
It  is  traced  in  sunset's  dyes  — 

"  Passing  away." 

It  is  written  on  the  trees, 

As  their  young  leaves  glistening  play, 
And  on  brighter  things  than  these  — 
"Passing  away." 

It  is  written  on  the  brow 

Where  the  spirit's  ardent  ray 
Lives,  and  burns,  and  triumphs  now— 
"Passing  away." 

It  is  written  on  the  heart, 
Alas !  that  there  decay 
Should  claim  from  love  a  part— 
"Passing  away." 

Friends,  friends !    O,  shall  we  meet 

In  a  land  of  purer  day  ? 
There  lovely  things  and  sweet 
Pass  not  away. 

Shall  we  know  each  other's  eyes 

And  the  thoughts  that  in  them  lay 
When  we  mingled  sympathies  ?  — 
Passing  away. 


134  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


0,  if  this  may  be  so, 

Speed,  speed,  thou  closing  day, 
How  blest,  from  earth*  s  vain  show 
To  pass  away. 

2.  — Though  I  were  perfect,  yet  would  1 
not  know  my  soul ;  I  would  despise  my  life. 
—Job  9 :  21. 

3.  — My  soul  is  weary  of  my  life ;  I  will 
leave  my  complaint  upon  myself;  I  will 
speak  in  the  bitterness  of  my  soul. 

I  will  say  unto  God,  Do  not  condemn  me  ; 
show  me  wherefore  thou  contendest  with  me. 
—Job  10 :  1,  2. 

4.  — Let  the  enemy  persecute  my  soul,  and 
take  it :  yea,  let  him  tread  down  my  life  up- 
on the  earth,  and  lay  my  honor  in  the  dust. 
Selah.— Psa.  7 :  6. 

5. 

"Faintly  flow,  thou  falling  river, 
Like  a  dream  that  dies  away ; 
Down  to  ocean  gliding  ever, 
Keep  thy  calm  unruffled  way ; 
Time  with  «uch  a  silent  motion 
Floats  along  on  wings  of  air, 
To  Eternity's  dark  ocean, 
Burying  all  its  treasures  there. 

Roses  bloom  and  then  they  wither. 
Cheeks  are  bright,  then  fade  and  die ; 
Shapes  of  light  are  wafted  hither. 
Then,  like  visions  hurry  by ; 
Quick  as  clguds  at  evening  driven 


AN  AUTUMNAL  STORY.  135 


O'er  the  many  colored  west, 
Years  are  bearing  us  to  heaven, 
Home  of  happiness  and  rest." 

6.  — For  my  life  is  spent  with  grief,  and 
my  years  with  sighing ;  my  strength  faileth 
because  of  my  iniquity,  and  my  bones  are 
consumed. — Psa.  31 :  10. 

7.  — Let  my  prayer  come  before  thee ;  in- 
cUne  thy  ear  unto  my  cry : 

For  my  soul  is  full  of  troubles :  and  my 
life  draweth  nigh  unto  the  grave. 

I  am  counted  with  them  that  go  down 
into  the  pit ;  I  am  as  a  man  that  hath  no 
strength : 

Free  among  the  dead,  like  the  slain  that  lie 
in  the  grave,  whom  thou  rememberest  no 
more  ;  and  they  are  cut  off  from  thy  hand. 
—Psa.  88 :  2-5. 

8. 

"  Time  speeds  away,  away,  away  — 
Another  hour,  another  day, 
Another  month,  another  year. 
Drop  from  us  like  the  leaflet  sere  ; 
Drop  like  our  life  blood  from  our  hearts ; 
The  rose  bloom  from  our  cheek  departs ; 
The  tresses  from  the  temples  fall ; 
The  eye  grows  strange  and  dim  to  all. 

Time  speeds  away,  away,  away,  — 
Like  torrents  in  a  stormy  day, 
He  undermines  the  stately  tower, 


136  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Uproots  the  trees,  and  snaps  the  flower, 

And  sweeps  from  our  distracted  breast 

The  friends  that  loved  —  the  friends  that  blessed  ; 

And  leaves  us  weeping  on  the  shore 

To  which  they  can  return  no  more. 

Time  speeds  away,  away,  away,  — 
No  eagle  through  the  skies  of  day, 
No  wind  along  the  hill  can  flee, 
So  swiftly  or  so  smooth  as  he  ; 
Like  fiery  steed,  from  stage  to  stage, 
He  bears  us  on  from  j^outh  to  age, 
Then  plunges  in  a  dreadful  sea 
Of  fathomless  eternity. 

School  rise  and  recite  with  Superinten- 
dent, Eccle.  12  :  1-T. 

Supt. — Remember  now  thy  Creator,  in  the 
days  of  thy  youth,  while  the  evil  days  come 
not,  nor  the  years  draw  nigh,  when  thou 
shalt  say,  I  have  no  pleasure  in  them. 

School. — While  the  sun,  or  the  light,  or 
the  moon,  or  the  stars,  be  not  darkened,  nor 
the  clouds  return  after  the  rain. 

Supt, — In  the  day  when  the  keepers  of  the 
house  shall  tremble,  and  the  strong  men  shall 
bow  themselves,  and  the  grinders  cease  be- 
cause they  are  few,  and  those  that  look  out 
of  the  windows  be  darkened. 

School.— AnA.  the  doors  shall  be  shut  in  the 
streets,  when  the  sound  of  the  grinding  is 
low,  and  he  shall  rise  at  the  voice  of  the 
bird,  and  all  the  daughters  of  music  shall  be 
brought  low : 


AN  ATJTUMNAL  STORY,  137 

Supt. — Also,  when  they  shall  be  afraid  of 
that  which  is  high,  and  fears  shall  be  in  the 
way,  and  the  almond-tree  shall  flourish,  and 
the  grasshopper  shall  be  a  burden,  and  desire 
shall  fail :  because  man  goeth  to  his  long 
home,  and  the  mourners  go  about  the  streets. 

School. — Or  ever  the  silver  chord  be  loosed, 
or  the  golden  bowl  be  broken,  or  the  pitcher 
be  broken  at  the  fountain,  or  the  wheel 
broken  at  the  cistern. 

Supt. — Then  shall  the  dust  return  to  the 
earth  as  it  was :  and  the  spirit  shall  return 
unto  God  who  gave  it. 

School  and  Congregation  sing.  Tune ; 
Dedham. 

Our  days  run  thoughtlessly  along, 

Without  a  moment's  stay; 
Just  like  a  story,  or  a  song, 

We  pass  our  lives  away. 

Draw  us,  0  God,  with  sovereign  grace, 

And  lift  our  thoughts  on  high. 
That  we  may  end  this  mortal  race, 

And  see  salvation  nigh. 

The  Pastor  becites: 

To-day  if  ye  will  hear  his  voice, 
Harden  not  your  heart,  as  in  the  provoca- 
tion, and  as  in  the  day  of  temptation  in  the 
wilderness :  Psa.  95 :  7,  8. 


138  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


School  and  Congregation  sing 

To-day  the  Saviour  calls  : 
Ye  wanderers,  come ; 

O  ye  benighted  souls, 
Why  longer  roam? 

To-day  the  Saviour  calls : 

O,  hear  him  uow  , 
Within  these  sacred  walls 

To  Jesus  bow. 


THE  CHRISTIAN'S  RELIANCE. 


OUR  HOPE  IS  IN  THE  LORD. 


Note. — Make  an  anchor  of  tliin  boards, 
lii 


142  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


and  cover  it  with  evergreen,  leaves,  or  fancy 
paper.  Also,  prepare  letters  forming  the 
motto,  Our  Hope  is  in  the  Lord,"  of  card 
board  ;  cover  them  with  flowers  or  paper, 
taking  care  to  have  the  letters  of  the  words, 
HOPE  and  LORD,  of  larger  size  than  the  oth- 
ers. As  each  scholar  recites  his  portion  of 
the  exercise,  the  letters  are  to  be  placed  upon 
the  anchor  in  the  position  shown  in  the  dia- 
gram on  preceding  page.  An  Anchor,  five 
or  six  feet  in  height,  with  letters  of  a  corres- 
ponding size,  and  if  used  during  the  fall  sea- 
son, covered  with  autumn  leaves,  with  letters 
of  gilt  or  silver  paper,  would  be  desirable. 
The  Anchor  may  be  suspended  upon  the 
wall,  or  made  with  a  standard,  and  placed  in 
an  upright  position. 

THE  EXERCISE. 

Singing  : — The  Lord  is  my  Shepherd." 
Pure  Diamonds-  p.  88. 

Ques.  hy  Supt.  Upon  whom  does  the 
Christian  rely  for  support  and  guidance? 

1st. — O  Lord,  my  God,  in  thee  do  I  put 
my  trust :  save  me  from  all  them  that  per- 
secute me,  and  deliver  me. — Psa.  7  : 1. 


THE  christian's  RELIANCE.  143 


2d.— But  I  trusted  in  Thee,  O  Lord:  I 
said,  Thou  art  my  God. 

My  times  are  in  thy  hand :  deliver  me  from 
the  hand  of  mine  enemies,  and  from  them 
that  persecute  me. — Psa.  31 :  14,  15. 

3d. — But  the  salvation  of  the  righteous  is 
of  the  Lord ;  he  is  their  strength  in  the  time 
of  trouble* 

And  the  Lord  shall  help  them  and  deliver 
them ;  he  shall  deliver  them  from  the  wick- 
ed, and  save  them,  because  they  trust  in  him. 
—Psa.  37 :  39,  40. 

4th. — Cast  thy  burden  upon  the  Lord,  and 
he  shall  sustain  thee  :  he  shall  never  suffer 
the  righteous  to  be  moved. — Psa.  55  :  22. 

Ques.  How  has  this  Reliance  of  the 
Christian  been  described  ? 

o. 

5th. — As  Omnipotent. 

I  am  the  Almighty  God  ;  walk  before  me, 
and  be  thou  perfect. — Gen.  17 :  1. 

Jehovah  reins :  he  dwells  in  light, 
Arrayed  with  majesty  and  might : 
The  world,  created  by  his  hands, 
Still  on  its  firm  fomidation  stands. 

But  ere  this  spacious  world  was  made 
Or  had  its  first  foundation  laid, 
His  throne  eternal  ages  stood, 
Himself  the  ever-living  God. 


144 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


And  I  appeared  unto  Abraham,  unto  Isaac, 
and  unto  Jacob,  by  the  name  of  God  Al- 
mighty.— Ex.  6  :  3. 

Places  O  on  the  Anchor. 

U. 

6th. — As  Unsearchable. 

Great  is  the  Lord,  and  greatly  to  be  prais- 
ed ;  and  his  greatness  is  unsearchable. — Psa. 
145:  3. 

Lord  we  adore  thy  vast  designs, 
Th*  obscure  abyss  of  providence, 

Too  deep  to  sound  with  mortal  lines. 
Too  dark  to  view  with  feeble  sense. 

Oh  the  depths  of  the  riches  both  of  the 
wisdom  and  knowledge  of  God !  how  un- 
searchable are  his  judgments,  and  his  ways 
past  finding  out.— Rom.  11 :  33. 

Places  U  on  the  Anchor. 

R. 

7th. — As  Righteous. 

O,  Lord  God  of  Israel,  thou  art  righteous. 
Ezra  9 :  15. 

0,  ALL  ye  nations,  praise  the  Lord ; 

His  glorious  acts  proclaim  : 
The  fulness  of  his  grace  record, 

And  magnify  his  name. 


THE  christian's  RELIANCE.  145 


His  love  is  great,  his  mercy  sure, 

And  faithful  is  his  word  ; 
His  truth  forever  shall  endure  ; 

Forever  praise  the  Lord. 

The  Lord  is  righteous  in  all  his  ways,  and 
holy  in  all  his  works. — Psa.  145  :  17. 

Places  R  on  the  Anchor. 

H. 

8th.— Holy. 

Exalt  the  Lord  our  God,  and  worship  at 
his  holy  hill ;  for  the  Lord  our  God  is  holy. 
—Psa.  99 :  9. 

Holy  and  reverend  is  the  name 

Of  our  eternal  King  : 
"  Thrice  holy  Lord,"  the  angels  cry  ; 

"  Thrice  holy,"  let  us  sing. 

The  deepest  reverence  of  the  mind, 

Pay,  O  my  soul,  to  God  ; 
Lift,  with  thy  hands,  a  holy  heart 

To  his  sublime  abode. 

But  the  Lord  of  hosts  shall  be  exalted  in 
judgment,  and  God  that  is  holy  shall  be 
sanctified  in  righteousness. — Isa.  5  :  16. 

Places  H  on  the  Anchor. 

O. 

9th. — As  Omnipresent. 

Whither  shall  I  go  from  thy  spirit  ?  or 
whither  shall  I  flee  from  thy  presence  ? 


146  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


If  I  ascend  up  into  heaven,  thou  art  there  : 
if  my  make  my  bed  in  hell,  behold,  thou  art 
there. 

If  I  take  the  wings  of  the  morning,  and 
dwell  in  the  uttermost  parts  of  the  sea : 

Even  there  shall  thy  hand  lead  me,  and 
thy  right  hand  shall  hold  me. — Psa.  139 :  7, 
8,  9,  10. 

Where  can  we  hide,  or  whither  fly, 
Lord,  to  escape  thy  piercing  eye  ? 
With  thee  it  is  not  day  and  night, 
But  darkness  shineth  as  the  light. 

Am  I  a  God  at  hand,  saith  the  Lord,  and 
not  a  God  afar  off. 

Can  any  hide  himself  in  secret  places  that 
I  shall  not  see  him  ?  saith  the  Lord.  Do  not 
I  fill  heaven  and  earth?  saith  the  Lord. — 
Jer.  23 :  23. 

Places  0  on  the  Anchor. 

P. 

10th.— Perfect. 

Be  ye  therefore  perfect,  even  as  your 
Father  which  is  in  heaven  is  perfect. — Matt. 
6 :  48. 

High  in  the  heavens,  eternal  God, 

Thy  goodness  in  full  glory  shines  ; 
Thy  truth  shall  break  through  every  cloud 

That  veils  thy  just  and  wise  designs. 


THE  christian's  RELIANCE.  147 


Forever  firm  thy  justice  stands, 
As  mountains  their  foundations  keep, 

Wise  are  the  wonders  of  thy  hands ; 
Thy  judgments  are  a  mighty  deep. 

The  law  of  the  Lord  is  perfect,  converting 
the  soul;  the  testimony  of  the  Lord  is  sure, 
making  wise  the  simple. — Psa.  19 :  7. 

Places  P  on  the  Anchor. 

E. 

11th. — As  Eternal. 

Before  the  mountains  were  brought  forth, 
or  ever  thou  hadst  formed  the  earth  and  the 
world,  even  from  everlasting  to  everlasting, 
thou  art  God.— Ps.  90  :  2, 

Thy  throne  eternal  ages  stood, 

Ere  seas  or  stars  were  made ; 
Thou  art  the  ever-living  -God, 

Were  all  the  nations  dead. 

Eternity,  with  all  its  years. 

Stands  present  in  thy  view ; 
To  thee  there*  s  nothing  old  appears : 

Great  God,  there's  nothing  new. 

The  eternal  God  is  thy  refuge,  and  under- 
neath are  the  everlasting  arms. — Deut.  83: 
27. 

Places  E  on  the  Anchor. 

Singing  :  "  The  Cliristian's  Hope."  Pure 
Qold,  p.  127. 


148  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


I. 

12tli.  The  Christian's  Reliance  has  been  de- 
scribed As  Immutable. 

They  shall  perish,  but  thou  shalt  endure  : 
yea,  all  of  them  shall  wax  old  like  a  gar- 
ment :  as  a  vesture  shalt  thou  change  them, 
and  they  shall  be  changed  : 

But  thou  art  the  same,  and  thy  years  shall 
have  no  end.    Psa.  102 :  26,  2T. 

Forever  shall  his  throne  endure  ; 
His  promise  stands  forever  sure  ; 
And  everlasting  holiness 
Becomes  the  dwellings  of  his  grace. 

Every  good  gift  and  every  perfect  gift  is 
from  above,  and  cometh  down  from  the 
Father  of  lights,  with  whom  is  no  variable- 
ness, neither  shadow  of  turning.    Jas.  1:  17. 

Places  I  on  the  Anchor. 

S. 

13th.    As  Strong. 

Because  of  his  strength  will  I  wait  upon 
thee :  for  God  is  my  defence. — Psa.  69 :  9, 

0  God,  our  help  in  ages  past, 

Our  hope  for  years  to  come. 
Our  shelter  from  the  stormy  blast, 

And  our  eternal  home,  — 

Beneath  the  shadow  of  thy  throne 

Thy  saints  have  dwelt  secure  ; 
Sufficient  is  thine  arm  alone, 

And  our  defence  is  sure. 


THE  christian's  eeliance.  149 


Ascribe  ye  strength  unto  God  ;  his  excel- 
lency is  over  Israel,  and  his  strength  is  in 
the  clouds.    Psa.  68  :  34. 

Places  S  on  the  Anchor. 

I. 

14th.    As  Immortal, 

The  King  of  kings,  and  Lord  of  lords : 
Who  only  hath  immortality,  dwelling  in 

the  light  which  no  man  can  approach  unto ; 

whom  no  man  hath   seen,  nor  can  see. 

1  Tim.  6 :  15,  16. 

With  sacred  awe  pronounce  his  name, 
Whom  words  nor  thoughts  can  reach  ; 

A  contrite  heart  shall  please  him  more 
Than  noblest  forms  of  speech. 

Thou  holy  God,  preserve  my  soul 

From  all  pollution  free  ; 
The  pure  in  heart  are  thy  delight, 

And  they  thy  face  shall  see. 

Now  unto  the  King  eternal,  immortal,  in- 
visible, the  only  wise  God,  be  honor  and 
glory  for  ever  and  ever.    1  Tim.  1 :  17. 

Places  I  on  the  Anchor. 

N. 

15th.    As  Near  Ms  people. 

Thou  art  near,  O  Lord  ;  and  all  thy  com- 
mandments are  truth. — Psa.  119  :  151. 


150  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Thy  powerful  arm  still  bears  me  up, 

Whatever  griefs  befall ; 
Thou  art  my  life,  my  joy,  my  hope, 

And  thou  my  all  in  all. 

Bereft  of  friendSy  beset  with  foes, 

With  dangers  all  around, 
To  thee  I  all  m}^  fears  disclose  ; 

In  thee  my  help  is  found. 

Seek  ye  the  Lord  while  he  may  be  found, 
call  ye  upon  him  while  he  is  near.  Isa.  55  : 
6. 

Places  N  on  the  Anchor. 
T. 

16th.    As  True. 

But  the  Lord  is  the  true  God,  he  is  the 
living  God,  and  an  everlasting  king  ;  at  his 
wrath  the  earth  shall  tremble,  and  the  na- 
tions shall  not  be  able  to  abide  his  indigna- 
tion.—Jer.  10  :  10. 

The  truth  of  God  shall  still  endure, 

And  firm  his  promise  stand  ; 
Believing  souls  may  rest  secure 

In  his  ajjnighty  hand. 

The  hills  and  mountains  melt  away ; 

But  he  is  still  the  same  : 
Let  saints  to  him  their  homage  pay, 

And  magnify  his  name. 

And  this  is  life  eternal,  that  they  might 
know  thee  the  only  true  God. — John  17  :  3. 

Places  T  on  the  Anchor. 


THE  christian's  RELIANCE.  151 


H. 

17th.    As  High. 

That  men  may  know  that  thou,  whose 
name  alone  is  Jehovah,  art  the  most  high 
over  all  the  earth.    Psa.  83  :  18. 

Jehovah  reigns  ;  his  throne  is  high ; 
His  robes  are  light  and  majesty ; 
His  glory  shines  with  beams  so  bright, 
No  mortal  can  sustain  the  sight. 

His  terrors  keep  the  world  in  awe ; 
His  justice  guards  his  holy  law ; 
His  love  reveals  a  smiling  face ; 
His  truth  and  promise  seal  the  grace. 

Howbeit  the  Most  High  dwelleth  not  in 
temples  made  with  hands.    Acts  7 :  48. 

Places  H  on  the  Anchor. 

E. 

18th.    As  Everlasting. 

But  now  is  made  manifest,  and  by  the 
Scriptures  of  the  prophets,  according  to  the 
commandment  of  the  everlasting  God,  made 
known  to  all  nations  for  the  obedience  of 
faith.— Rom.  16  :  26. 

Great  God,  how  infinite  art  thou ! 

What  worthless  worms  are  we ! 
Let  all  the  race  of  creatures  bow, 

And  pay  their  praise  to  thee. 

Thy  throne  eternal  ages  stood, 

Ere  seas  or  stars  were  made  ; 
Thou  art  the  ever-living  God, 

Were  all  the  nations  dead. 


152 


GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


Hast  thou  not  known?  hast  thou  nou 
heard,  that  the  everlasting  God,  the  Lord, 
the  Creator  of  the  ends  of  the  earth,  faint- 
eth  not,  neither  is  weary  ?  there  is  no  search- 
ing of  his  understanding.    Isa.  40  :  28, 

Places  E  on  the  Anchor. 

19th. — As  Long  suffering. 

The  Lord  is  long  suffering  and  of  great 
mercy,  forgiving  iniquity  and  transgression. 
—Num.  14 :  18. 

God  is  love  ;  his  mercy  brightens 

All  the  path  in  which  we  rove  ; 
Bliss  he  wakes,  and  woe  he  lightens  ; 

God  is  wisdom,  God  is  love. 

Chance  and  change  are  busy  ever ; 

Man  decaj^s,  and  ages  move  ; 
But  his  mercy  waneth  never ; 
God  is  wisdom,  God  is  love. 

Who  is  a  God  like  unto  thee,  that  pardon- 
eth  iniquity,  and  passeth  by  the  transgression 
of  the  remnant  of  his  heritage  ?  he  retaineth 
not  his  anger  for  ever,  because  he  delighteth 
in  mercy. — Micah  7  ;  18. 

Places  L  on  the  Anchor. 

O. 

20th. — As  Omniscient. 

0  Lord,  thou  hast  searched  me,  and  known 
me. 


THE  christian's  RELIANCE.  153 


Thou  knowest  my  downsitting  and  mine 
uprising ;  thou  understandest  my  thought 
afar  off. 

Thou  compassest  my  path  and  my  lying 
down,  and  art  acquainted  with  all  my  ways. 

For  there  is  not  a  word  in  my  tongue,  but, 
lo,  O  Lord,  thou  knowest  it  altogether. — 
Psa.  139 :  1,  2,  3,  4. 

The  heaven  of  heavens  cannot  contain 

The  universal  Lord  ; 
Yet  he  in  humble  hearts  will  deign 

To  dwell  and  be  adored. 

For  the  ways  of  man  are  before  the  eyes 
of  the  Lord,  and  he  pondereth  all  his  goings. 
— Prov.  5  :  21. 

Places  O  on  the  Anchor. 

R. 

21st. — As  a  Refuge. 

The  Lord  also  will  be  a  refuge  for  the  op- 
pressed, a  refuge  in  times  of  trouble. — Ps. 
9:  9. 

Israel,  rejoice,  and  rest  secure  ; 

Thy  keeper  is  the  Lord  : 
His  wakeful  eyes  emplo}^  his  power 

For  thine  eternal  guard. 

He  guards  thy  soul,  he  keeps  thy  breath, 

Where  thickest  dangers  come  ; 
Go  and  return,  secure  from  death, 

Till  God  AvaW  call  Ihco  home. 


154  GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


God  is  our  refuge  and  strength,  a  very 
present  help  in  trouble. — Psa.  46  :  1. 

Places  R  on  the  Anchor. 

22nd. — As  a  Defence. 

My  defence  is  of  God,  which  saveth  the 
upright  in  heart. — Psa.  7 :  10. 

No  change  of  time  shall  ever  shock 

My  trust,  0  Lord,  in  thee  ; 
For  thou  hast  always  been  my  rock, 

A  sure  defence  to  me. 

Thou  our  deliverer  art,  0  God ; 

Our  trust  is  in  thy  power  : 
Thou  art  our  shield  from  foes  abroad, 

Our  safeguard,  and  our  tower. 

Because  of  his  strength  will  I  wait  upon 
thee  :  for  God  is  my  defence. — Ps.  69  :  9. 

Places  D  on  the  Anchor. 

SiKGiNG;  "  In  the  Rifted  Rock,  I'm  rest- 
ing."   Pure  aold,  p  134. 

23d. — Hope  we  have  as  an  anchor  of  the 
soul,  both  sure  and  steadfast,  and  which  en- 
tereth  into  that  within  the  veil. — Heb.  6  :  19. 

Amidst  temptations,  sharp  and  long, 

My  soul  to  this  dear  refuge  flies  ; 
Hope  is  my  anchor,  firm  and  strong, 

While  temptcsts  blow  and  billows  rise. 


THE  christian's  RELIANCE.  155 


The  gospel  bears  my  spirit  up ; 

A  faithful  and  unchanging  God 
Lays  the  foundation  for  my  hope 

In  oaths,  and  promises,  and  blood. 

24th. — And  now,  Lord,  what  wait  I  for  ? 
my  hope  is  in  thee. — Psa.  39  :  7. 

For  thou  art  my  hope,  O  Lord  God : 
thou  art  my  trust  from  my  youth.  —  Psa. 
71:  6. 

25th. — Happy  is  he  that  hath  the  God  of 
Jacob  for  his  health,  whose  hope  is  in  the 
Lord  his  God.— Psa.  146  :  5. 

Thou  art  my  hope  in  the  day  of  evil. — J er. 
.  17 :  17. 

26th. — But  the  Lord  will  be  the  hope  of 
his  people,  and  the  strength  of  the  children 
of  Israel. — Joel  3  : 16. 

27th. — Who  by  him  do  believe  in  God, 
that  raised  him  up  from  the  dead,  and  gave 
him  glory :  that  your  faith  and  hope  might 
be  in  God.— 1  Pet.  1 :  21. 

All  the  School  rise  and  recite  : 

Blessed  is  the  man  that  trusteth  in  the 
Lord,  and  whose  hope  the  Lord  is. 

For  he  shall  be  as  a  tree  planted  by  the 
waters,  and  that  spreadeth  out  her  roots  by 
the  river,  and  shall  not  see  when  heat  com- 


156  GATHEBED  SHEAVES. 


eth,  but  hex'  leaf  shall  be  green  ;  and  shall 
not  be  careful  in  the  year  of  drought,  neither 
shall  cease  from  yielding  fruit. — Jer.  17  :  7,  8. 
School  and  congregation  sing  : 

Guide  me,  0  thou  great  Jehovah, 

Pilgrim  through  this  barren  land  : 
I  am  weak,  but  thou  art  mighty ; 
Hold  me  with  thy  powerful  hand : 

Bread  of  heaven, 
Feed  me  till  I  want  no  more. 

Open  now  the  crystal  fountain. 
Whence  the  healing  streams  do  flow ; 

Let  the  fiery,  cloudy  pillar 
Lead  me  all  my  journey  through : 

Strong  Deliverer 
Be  thou  still  my  strength  and  shield. 


ROCK  OF  AGES. 


ROOK  OF  AGES. 


160  GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


Directions.  —  Prepare  a  cross  similar  to 
diagram,  which,  with  the  base,  should  be 
eight  or  more  feet  in  height ;  it  should  be 
made  in  such  a  manner  as  to  have  a  massive 
appearance.  Paint  the  cross  white,  and  pre- 
pare the  letters  forming  the  motto — ROCK  OP 
AGES — of  hlack  card-board,  in  order  to  have 
as  much  contrast  as  possible  between  the 
cross  and  letters ;  around  the  foot  of  the 
cross,  pile  up,  if  convenient,  a  large  num- 
ber of  white  stone,  (lime-stone  would  be  ap- 
propriate,) in  order  to  give  the  appearance 
of  the  cross  being  planted  in  the  midst  of 
rocks.  Ferns  and  trailing  plants  arranged 
among  the  rocks,  and  an  ivy  twining  around 
the  cross,  will  add  much  to  the  interest.  An 
arch  over  the  cross,  made  of  evergreen,  with 
gilt  letters,  forming  the  sentence,  Who  is 
a  Rock,  save  our  God  ?  "  will  increase  the 
effect.  The  exercise  is  to  be  recited  in  the 
following  manner:  As  each  scholar's  turn 
comes  to  recite,  he  is  to  come  forward,  recite 
the  portion  allotted  to  him,  place  the  letter 
on  the  cross,  (or  hand  it  to  the  superinten- 
dent, or  some  one  he  may  select  to  place  the 
letters  in  position,)  and  return  to  his  seat, 
when  the  next  one  to  recite,  proceeds  in  like 
manner.    When  the  motto  is  completed,  and 


THE  EOCK  OF  AGES.  161 


during  the  singing  of  "  Mighty  Rock,"  five 
girls  are  to  form  in  a  semi-circle  around  the 
cross,  and  each  one  repeats  one  verse  of  the 
poem,  Rock  of  Ages,"  all  reciting  in  con- 
cert the  Scripture  verse  following.  They 
can  return  to  their  seats  during  the  singing 
of  "  Rock  of  Ages." 

THE  EXERCISE. 

Singing  :  "  The  Rock  that  is  higher  than 
I."     Wiyinowed  Hymns^  p.  66. 

Ques,  hy  Supt.  Why  is  our  Saviour  pre- 
cious to  the  Christian. 

R. 

First  Scholar.  He  is  precious  to  him  be- 
cause He  redeems  him. 

Forasmuch  as  ye  know  that  ye  were  not  redeemed  with  cor- 
ruptible things,  as  silver  and  gold,  from  your  vain  conversation 
received  by  tradition  from  your  fathers ; 

But  with  the  precious  blood  of  Christ,  as  of  a  lamb  without 
blemish  and  without  spot. — 1  Peter  1 :  18,  19. 

Now  to  the  Lord,  who  makes  us  know 

The  wonders  of  his  dying  love, 
Be  humble  honors  paid  below. 

And  strains  of  nobler  praise  above. 

*Twas  he  who  cleansed  us  from  our  sins, 
And  washed  us  in  his  precious  blood  j 

*Tis  he  who  makes  us  priests  and  kings, 
And  brings  us,  rebels,  near  to  God. 

Places  R  on  the  Cross. 


162  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


O. 

Second  Scholar.  He  is  precious  to  him, 
because  he  opens  the  way  of  salvation  for 
him. 

I  am  the  door:  by  me  if  any  man  enter  in  he  shall  be  saved, 
and  shall  go  in  and  out,  and  find  pasture. — John  10 :  9. 
Is  He  a  Door  ?   I'll  enter  in ; 
Behold  the  pastures  large  and  green ! 
A  paradise  —  divinely  fair ; 
None  but  the  saints  have  freedom  there. 

Places  0  on  the  Cross. 

C. 

Third  Scholar^  He  is  precious  to  him,  be- 
cause he  cleanses  him  from  sin. 

The  blood  of  Jesus  Christ  his  Son  cleanseth  us  from  all  sin. 

1  John  1 :  7. 

Jesus,  to  thy  wounds  I  fly; 
Purge  my  sins  of  deepest  dye; 
Lamb  of  God,  for  sinners  slain, 
Wash  away  my  crimson  stain. 

Plunge  me  in  that  sacred  flood, 
In  that  fountain  of  thy  blood; 
Then  thy  Father's  eye  shall  see 
Not  a  spot  of  guilt  in  me. 

Places  C  on  the  Cross. 

K. 

Fourth  Scholar.  He  is  precious  to  him  be- 
cause he  keeps  him  from  evil. 

But  the  Lord  is  faithful,  who  shall  Btablish  you,  and  keep  you 
from  evil. — 2  Thessalouians  3 :  'o 


THE  ROCK  OF  AGES.  163 


He  is  our  shield  when  troubles  rise, 
When  storms  and  tempests  lower; 

He  rides  triumphant  in  the  skies, 
And  serves  us  by  his  power. 

Places  K  on  the  Cross. 

Singing  :  "  Flowing  Rock."  Boyal  Dia-* 
dem^  p.  80. 

o. 

Fifth  Scholar :  He  is  precious  to  him,  be- 
cause he  offers  to  pardon  him.. 

Who  is  a  God  like  unto  thee,  that  pardoneth  iniquity,  and 
passeth  by  the  transgression  of  the  remnant  of  his  heritage  ?  he 
retaiueth  not  his  anger  for  ever,  because  he  delighteth  in  mercy 

Micah  7 ;  18. 

But  thy  atoning  sacrifice 

Hath  answered  all  demands, 
And  peace  and  pardon  from  the  skies 

Are  blessings  from  thy  hands. 

'Tis  by  thy  death  we  live,  0  Lord; 

*Tis  on  thy  cross  we  rest; 
Forever  be  thy  love  adored, 

Thy  name  forever  blest. 

Places  0  on  the  Cross. 

F. 

Sixth  Scholar :  He  is  precious  to  him,  be- 
cause he  forgives  him. 

He  is  faithful  and  just  to  forgive  us  our  sins,  and  to  cleanse 
us  from  all  unrighteousness. — 1  John  1 :  9. 

"  Father,  forgive,' '  the  Saviour  cried, 
With  his  expiring  breath. 
And  drew  eternal  blessings  do-wn 
On  tRose  who  wrought  his  death. 

Places  F  on  the  Cross. 


164  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


A. 

Seventh  Scholar:  He  is  precious  to  him, 
because  he  administers  to  his  necessities. 

I  am  the  good  shepherd,  and  know  my  sheep,  and  am  known 
of  mine. 

As  the  Father  knoweth  me,  even  so  know  I  the  Father ;  and  I 
lay  down  my  life  for  the  sheep. — John  10 :  14, 15. 

My  spirit  looks  to  God  alone ; 
My  rock  and  refuge  is  his  throne  ; 
In  all  my  fears,  in  all  my  straits, 
My  soul  for  his  salvation  waits. 

Trust  him,  ye  saints,  in  all  your  ways ; 
Pour  out  your  hearts  before  his  face  ; 
When  helpers  fail  and  foes  invade 
God  is  our  all-sufficient  aid. 

Places  A  on  the  Cross. 

G. 

Eighth  Scholar.  He  is  precious  to  him  be- 
cause he  gives  him  eternal  life. 

And  I  give  unto  them  eternal  life  ;  and  they  shall  never  per- 
ish, neither  shall  any  pluck  them  out  of  my  hand. — John  10 : 
28. 

Firm  as  the  earth  thy  gospel  stands, 

My  Lord,  my  hope,  my  trust ; 
If  I  am  found  in  Jesus'  hands, 

My  soul  can  ne'er  be  lost. 

His  honor  is  engaged  to  save 

The  meanest  of  his  sheep  ; 
All,  whom  his  heavenly  Father  gave, 

His  hands  securely  keep. 

Places  G  on  the  Cross. 


BOCK  OF  AGES. 


165 


E. 

Ninth  Seliolar.  He  is  gracious  to  him,  be- 
causes  he  encourages  him. 

And  ye  shall  be  hated  of  all  men  for  my  name's  sake  :  but  he 
that  endureth  to  the  end  shall  be  saved.— Matt.  10;  22. 

Jesus,  my  truth,  my  way, 

My  sure,  unerring  light, 
On  thee  my  feeble  soul  I  stay, 

Which  thou  wilt  lead  aright. 

My  wisdom  and  my  guide, 

My  counsellor,  thou  art; 
Oh,  never  let  me  leave  thy  side, 

Or  from  thy  paths  depart 

Places  E  on  the  Cross. 

S. 

Tenth  Scholar.  He  is  precious  to  him  be- 
cause he  saves  him. 

This  is  a  faithful  saying,  and  worthy  of  all  acceptation,  that 
Christ  Jesus  came  into  the  world  to  save  sinners. — 1  Tim.  1 : 15. 

And  did  the  holy  and  the  just, 

The  sovereign  of  the  skies, 
Stoop  down  to  wretchedness  and  dust, 

That  guilty  man  might  rise  ? 

Yes,  the  Redeemer  left  his  throne, 

His  radiant  throne  on  high  — 
Surprising  mercy !  love  unknown ! 

To  suffer,  bleed,  and  die. 

Places  S  on  the  Cross. 


Singing:  ''Mighty  Rock."  Royal  Dia- 
dem, p.  124. 


166  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


FIRST  GIRL.. 

"  Rock  of  Ages,  cleft  for  me," 

Thoughtlessly  the  maiden  sung ; 
Fell  the  words  unconsciously 

From  her  girlish,  gleeful  tongue ; 
Sang  as  little  children  sing ; 

Sang  as  sing  the  birds  in  spring ; 
Fell  the  words  like  light  leaves  down, 

On  the  current  of  the  tune ; 
"  Rock  of  Ages,  cleft  for  me, 

Let  me  hide  myself  in  thee." 

ALL. 

The  Lord  is  my  rock,  and  my  fortress,  and  my  deliverer ;  ny 
God,  my  strength,  in  whom  I  will  trust. — ^Psa.  18  :  2. 

SECOND  GIRL. 

"  Let  me  hide  myself  in  thee," 
Felt  her  soul  no  need  to  hide  ; 
Sweet  the  song  as  song  could  be, 

And  she  had  no  thought  beside  ; 
All  the  words  unheedingly 

Fell  from  lips  untouched  by  care, 
Dreaming  not  that  each  might  be 

On  some  other  lips  a  prayer : 
"  Rock  of  Ages,  cleft  for  me, 
Let  me  hide  myself  in  thee." 

ALL. 

For  thou  art  my  rock  and  my  fortress  ;  therefore  for  thy 
name's  sake  lead  me,  and  guide  me.  —  Psalm  31 :  3. 

THIRD  GIRL. 

"  Rock  of  Ages,  cleft  for  me !  " 

'Twas  a  woman  sung  them  now, 
Pleadingly  and  prayerfully ; 

Every  word  her  heart  did  know, 


EOCK  OF  AGES. 


167 


Rose  the  song  as  storm-tossed  bird 
Beats  with  weary  wing  the  air ; 

Every  note  with  sorrow  stirred, 
Every  syllable  a  prayer ; 

"  Eock  of  Ages,  cleft  for  me, 

Let  me  hide  myself  in  thee." 

ALL. 

From  the  ends  of  the  earth  will  I  cry  unto  thee,  when  my 
heart  is  overwhelmed :  lead  me  to  the  rock  that  is  higher  ihan 
L  — Psalm  61:2. 

FOUETH  GIRL. 

"  Rock  of  Ages,  cleft  for  me  "  — 

Lips  grown  aged  sung  the  hj'-mn 
Trustingly  and  tenderly, 

Voice  grown  weak,  and  eyes  grown  dim  — 
"  Let  me  hide  myself  in  thee.'* 

Trembling  though  the  voice,  and  low, 
Ran  the  sweet  strain  peacefully, 

Like  a  river  in  its  flow. 
Sung  as  only  they  can  sing 

Who  lifer's  thorny  paths  have  pressed; 
Sung  as  only  they  can  sing 

Who  behold  the  promised  rest ; 
"  Rock  of  Agfis,  cleft  for  me, 

Let  me  hide  myself  in  thee-" 

ALL. 

Be  thou  my  stroug  habitation,  whereunto  I  may  continually 
resort;  thou  hast  given  commandment  to  save  me;  for  thou  art 
my  rock  and  my  fortress,— Psa.  71 :  3. 

FIFTH  GIRL. 

"  Rock  of  Ages,  cleft  for  me !  ** 

Sung  above  a  coffin4id ; 
Underneath  all  restfully, 

All  life's  joys  and  sorrows  hid. 


168  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Nevermore,  0  storm  tossed  soul, 

Nevermore  from  wind  or  tide, 
Nevermore  from  billow's  roll, 

Wilt  thou  need  thyself  to  hide. 
Could  the  sightless,  sunken  eyes, 

Closed  beneath  the  soft  gray  hair 
Could  the  mute  and  stiffened  lips 

Move  again  in  silent  prayer, 
Still,  aye  still,  the  words  would  be, 
"  Rock  of  Ages,  cleft  for  me. 

Let  me  hide  myself  in  thee." 

ALL. 

But  the  Lord  is  my  defence  ;  and  my  God  is  the  rock  of  my 
refuge  —  Psalm  94 :  22. 

School  and  Congregation  unite  in  singing. 

Rock  of  Ages,  cleft  for  me. 

Let  me  hide  mj^self  in  thee  ; 

Let  the  water  and  the  blood, 

From  thy  side,  a  healing  flood, 

Be  of  sin  the  double  cure  — 

Save  from  wrath,  and  make  me  pure. 


¥l\e  Smitten  ^o6k. 


THE  SMITTEN  ROCK. 


Directions. — The  topics  and  questions  in 
this  exercise  are  to  be  asked  or  announced 
by  the  Superintendent,  and  the  answers  given 
by  different  individuals  or  classes.  It  may 
be  lengthened,  if  desired,  by  increasing  the 
number  of  verses  of  Scripture,  by  the  use  of 
the  Concordance,  or  Manual. 

THE  EXERCISE. 
Singing:  "The  Smitten  Rock."  Royal 
Diadem^  p.  123. 

Alternate  reading,  School  and  Supt. 

Supt. — He  clave  the  rocks  in  the  wilder- 
ness, and  gave  them  drink  as  out  of  the 
great  depths. 

School. — He  brought  streams  also  out  of 
the  rock,  and  caused  waters  to  run  down 
like  rivers. 

171 


172  GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


Supt. — And  they  sinned  yet  more  against 
him,  by  provoking  the  Most  High  in  the  wil- 
derness. 

School. — And  they  tempted  God  in  their 
heart  by  asking  meat  for  their  lust. 

Supt, — Yea,  they  spake  against  God  :  they 
said,  Can  God  furnish  a  table  in  the  wilder- 
ness ? 

School. — Behold,  he  smote  the  rock,  that 
the  waters  gushed  out,  and  the  streams 
overflowed :  can  he  give  bread  also  ?  can  he 
provide  flesh  for  his  people  ?  Ps.  28  :  15,  20. 

THE  SMITING  OF  THE  ROCK:. 

And  the  Lord  spake  unto  Moses,  saying, 
Take  the  rod,  and  gather  thou  the  assembly 
together,  thou  and  Aaron  thy  brother,  and 
speak  ye  unto  the  rock  before  their  eyes  ; 
and  it  shall  give  forth  his  water,  and  thou 
shalt  bring  forth  to  them  water  out  of  the 
rock :  so  that  thou  shalt  give  the  congrega- 
tion and  their  beasts  drink. 

And  Moses  took  the  rod  from  before  the 
Lord,  as  he  commanded  him. 

And  Moses  and  Aaron  gathered  the  con- 
gregation together  before  the  rock,  and  he 
said  unto  them.  Hear,  now,  ye  rebels,  must 
we  fetch  you  water  out  of  this  rock  ? 


THE  SMITTEN  EOCK. 


173 


And  Moses  lifted  up  his  hand,  and  with 
his  rod  he  smote  the  rock  twice. — Num.  20 : 
7-11. 

Ques, — When  Moses  smote  the  rock,  what 
occurred  ? 

Ans, — And  the  water  came  out  abundant- 
ly, and  the  congregation  drank,  and  their 
beasts  also. — Num.  20  : 11. 

"  They  thirst ;  and  waters  from  the  rock 
In  rich  abundance  flow, 
And  following  still  the  course  they  took, 
Ran  all  the  desert  through," 

Ques. — Of  whom  is  this  Smitten  Rock  ty- 
pical ? 

Am. — Of  our  Saviour,  Jesus  Christ. 

"  0  wondrous  stream !    O  blessed  type 
Of  ever  flowing  grace ! 
So  Christ,  our  rock,  maintains  our  life 
Through  all  this  wilderness. 

Moreover  brethren,  I  would  not  that  ye 
should  be  ignorant,  how  that  all  our  fathers 
were  under  the  cloud,  and  all  passed  through 
the  Sea : 

And  were  all  baptized  unto  Moses  in  the 
cloud,  and  in  the  sea : 

And  did  all  eat  the  same  spiritual  meat: 
And  did  all  drink  the  same  spiritual  drink  : 


174 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


(for  they  drank  of  that  spiritual  Rock  that 
followed  them :  and  that  Rock  was  Christ.) 
— 1  Cor.  10:  1-4. 

"  Is  He  a  Rock  ?   How  firm  he  proves ; 
The  Rock  of  Ages  never  moves, 
Yet  the  sweet  streams  that  from  him  flow, 
Attend  us  all  this  desert  through.'* 

Ques. — How  was  our  Rock  smitten  for  us  ? 

Ans. — He  is  despised  and  rejected  of  men : 
a  man  of  sorrows,  and  acquainted  with 
grief ;  and  we  hid  as  it  were  our  faces  from 
him  ;  he  was  despised,  and  we  esteemed  him 
not. 

Surely  he  hath  borne  our  griefs,  and  car- 
ried our  sorrows :  yet  we  did  esteem  him 
stricken,  smitten  of  God,  and  afflicted. 

But  he  was  wounded  for  our  transgres- 
sions, he  was  bruised  for  our  iniquities  :  the 
chastisement  of  our  peace  was  upon  him: 
and  with  his  stripes  we  are  healed. — Isa.  53 : 
3,4,  5. 

Stretched  on  the  cross,  the  Saviour  dies. 
Hark !  his  expiring  groans  arise ; 
See,  from  his  hands,  his  feet,  his  side, 
Descends  the  sacred,  crimson  tide. 

Singing:  "  The  Flowing  Rock."  Bo^al 
Diadem^  p.  80. 


THE  SMITTEN  ROCK. 


175 


Ques. — When  Moses  smote  the  Rock,  the 
water  came  forth  abundantly  ;  what  streams 
flow  from  the  Rock  that  was  smitten  for  us  ? 

Ans. — The  Stream  of  Salvation. 

Neither  is  there  salvation  in  any  other  ;  for 
there  is  none  other  name  under  heaven  given 
among  men  whereby  we  must  be  saved. — 
Acts  4 :  12. 

And  being  made  perfect,  he  became  the 
author  of  eternal  salvation  unto  all  them  that 
obey  him. — Heb.  5  :  9. 

"  The  voice  of  free  grace  cries,  "  Escape  to  the  mountain ;  " 
For  Adam^s  lost  race  Christ  hath  opened  a  fountain; 
For  sin  and  uncleanness,  and  every  transgression, 
His  blood  flows  most  freely  in  streams  of  salvation. 

The  Stream  of  Mercy, 

But  after  that,  the  kindness  and  love  of 
God  our  Saviour  toward  man  appeared. 

Not  by  works  of  righteousness  which  we 
have  done,  but  according  to  his  mercy  he 
saved  us,  by  the  washing  of  regeneration, 
and  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost : 

Which  he  shed  on  us  abundantly  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Saviour. 

That  being  justified  by  his  grace,  we  should 
be  made  heirs  according  to  the  hope  of  eter- 
nal life.— Titus  3  ;  4-7. 


176  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


**  To  save  a  guilty  world,  he  dies  ; 

Sinners,  behold  the  bleeding  Lamb  ; 
To  him  lift  up  your  longing  eyes, 
And  hope  for  mercy  in  his  name. 

Pardon  and  peace  through  him  abound ; 

He  can  the  richest  blessings  give  ; 
Salvation  in  his  name  is  found  ;  / 

He  bids  the  dying  sinner  live. 

The  Stream  of  Pardon. 

And  I  will  cleanse  them  from  all  their  ini- 
quity whereby  they  have  sinned  against  me  ; 
and  I  will  pardon  all  their  iniquities,  where- 
by they  have  sinned,  and  whereby  they  have 
transgressed  against  me. — Jer.  33  :  8. 

Seek  ye  the  Lord  while  he  may  be  found, 
call  ye  upon  him  while  he  is  near  : 

Let  the  wicked  forsake  .his  way,  and  the 
unrighteous  man  his  thoughts ;  and  let  him 
return  unto  the  Lord,  and  he  will  have  mercy 
upon  him :  and  to  our  God,  for  he  will 
abundantly  pardon. — Isa.  55  :  6,  7. 

"  Jesus,  to  thy  wounds  I  fly  ; 
Purge  my  sins  of  deepest  d^^e  ; 
Lamb  of  God,  for  sinners  slain, 
Wash  away  my  crimson  stain. 

Plunge  me  in  that  sacred  flood, 
In  that  fountain  of  thy  blood ; 
Then  thy  Father's  eye  shall  see 
Not  a  spot  of  guilt  in  me.'* 


THE  SMITTEN  KOCK. 


177 


SINGING. 

**  There  is  a  fountain  filled  with  blood, 

Drawn  from  Immanuel's  veins  ; 
And  sinners  plunged  beneath  that  flood, 

Lose  all  their  guilty  stains. 
E'er  since,  by  faith,  I  saw  the  stream 

Thy  flowing  wounds  supply, 
Redeeming  love  has  been  my  theme, 

And  shall  be,  till  I  die 

The  Stream  of  Love. 

For  scarcely  for  a  righteous  man  will  one 
die :  yet  peradventure  for  a  good  man  some 
would  even  dare  to  die. 

But  God  commendeth  his  love  toward  us, 
in  that,  while  we  were  yet  sinners,  Christ 
died  for  us. 

Much  more  then,  being  now  justified  by 
his  blood,  we  shall  be  saved  from  wrath 
through  him.  —  Rom.  5:7,8,  9. 

"  This  spring  with  living  water  flows, 
And  heavenly  joy  imparts  ; 
Come,  thirsty  souls,  your  wants  disclose, 
And  drink  with  thankful  hearts. 

Come,  then,  with  all  your  wants  and  wounds 

Your  every  burden  bring ; 
Here  love,  unchanging  love  abounds, 

A  deep,  celestial  spring.*' 

The  Stream  of  Peace. 
That  at  that  time  ye  were  without  Christy 


178  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


being  aliens  from  the  commonwealth  of  Is- 
rael, and  strangers  from  the  covenants  of 
promise,  having  no  hope,  and  without  God 
in  the  world : 

But  now,  in  Christ  Jesus,  ye  who  some- 
time were  far  off  are  made  nigh  by  the  blood 
of  Christ.  — Eph.  2:  12,  13. 

Therefore  being  justified  by  faith,  we 
have  peace  with  God  through  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ :  —  Rom.  5  :  1. 

"  For  every  thirsty,  longing  heart, 
Here  streams  of  bounty  flow, 
And  life,  and  health,  and  bliss,  impart, 
To  banish  mortal  woe. 

The  Stream  of  Living  Water. 

There  cometh  a  woman  of  Samaria  to 
draw  water :  Jesus  saith  unto  her,  Give  me 
to  drink. 

Then  saith  the  woman  of  Samaria  unto 
him,  How  is  it  that  thou,  being  a  Jew,  askest 
drink  of  me,  which  am  a  woman  of  Samaria  ? 
for  the  Jews  have  no  dealings  with  the 
Samaritans. 

Jesus  answered  and  said  unto  her.  If  thou 
knewest  the  gift  of  God,  and  who  it  is 
that  saith  to  thee,  Give  me  to  drink  ;  thou 
wouldest  have  asked  of  him  and  he  would 
have  given  thee  living  water. 


THE  SMITTEN  ROCB:. 


179 


Jesus  answered  and  said  unto  her,  Who- 
soever drinketh  of  this  water  shall  thirst 
again : 

But  whosoever  drinketh  of  the  water  that 
I  shall  give  him  shall  never  thirst ;  but  the 
water  that  I  shall  give  him  shall  be  in  him  a 
well  of  water  springing  up  into  everlasting 
life.  — John  4:  7,  9^  10,  13,  14. 

"  Ho !  ye  that  pant  for  living  streams, 
And  pine  away  and  die, — 
Here  you  may  quench  your  raging  thirst 
With  springs  that  never  dry. 

Singing  :  "  The  water  of  Life."  Fresh 
Laurels^  p.  50. 

Ques.  Are  these  waters  that  flow  from 
this  Smitten  Rock,  free  to  all  ? 

Ans.  Ho,  every  one  that  thirsteth,  come 
ye  to  the  waters,  and  ye  that  hath  no  money  : 
come  ye,  buy,  and  eat ;  yea,  come,  buy  wine 
and  milk  without  money  and  without  price. 
Isa.,  55 :  1. 

"  Rivers  of  love  and  mercy  here 
In  a  rich  ocean  join ; 
Salvation  in  abundance  flows, 
Like  floods  of  milk  and  wine.'* 

In  the  last  day,  that  great  day  of  the 
feast,  Jesus  stood  and  cried,  sayiqg.  If  any 
man  thirst,  let  him  come  unto  me  and  drink, 
John  7 :  37. 


180  GATHERED  SHBAYES. 


"  Our  God  will  every  want  supply, 
And  fill  our  hearts  with  peace  ; 
He  gives  by  covenant  and  by  oath 
The  riches  of  his  grace. 

Come,  and  he'll  cleanse  our  spotted  souls, 

And  wash  away  our  stains, 
In  the  dear  fountain  that  his  Son 

Pour'd  from  his  dying  veins." 

And  the  Spirit  and  the  Bride  say,  Come. 
And  let  him  that  heareth  say,  Come.  And 
let  him  that  is  athirst,  come.  And  whoso- 
ever will,  let  him  take  the  water  of  life 
freely.— Rev.  22  :  17. 

"Let  him  that  heareth  say 
To  all  about  him,  "  Come  ; " 
Let  him  that  thirsts  for  righteousness 
To  Christ,  the  fountain,  come. 

Yes,  whosoever  will, 

O,  let  him  freely  come. 
And  freely  drink  the  stream  of  life  ; 

'Tis  Jesus  bids  him  come. 

Ques.  What  are  the  results  of  partaking 
of  the  streams  that  flow  from  this  Rock  ? 

Ans,  They  shall  not  hunger  nor  thirst ; 
peither  shall  the  heat  nor  sun  smite  them : 
for  he  that  h^th  mercy  on  them  shall  lead 
thena,  even  by  the  springs  of  water  shall  he 
guide  them.— Isa.  49  :  10. 

The  woman  s^ith  unto  him,  Sir,  give  me 
this  w^,ter,  that  I  thirst  not,  neither  come 
hither  to  draw.— John  4 :  15. 


THE  SMITTEN  KOCK. 


181 


And  Jesus  said  unto  them,  I  am  the  bread 
of  life ;  he  that  cometh  to  me  shall  never 
hunger ;  and  he  that  believeth  on  me  shall 
never  thirst. — John  6  :  35. 

They  shall  hunger  no  more,  neither  thirst 
any  more  ;  neither  shall  the  sun  light  on 
them,  nor  any  heat. 

For  the  Lamb  which  is  in  the  midst  of 
the  throne  shall  feed  them,  and  shall  lead 
them  unto  living  fountains  of  waters  ;  and 
God  shall  wipe  away  all  tears  from  their 
eyes. — Rev.  7 :  16,  17. 

BECITATION. 

THE  SHADOW  OF  THE  ROCK. 

"  The  shadow  of  the  Rock! 

Stay,  Pilgrim,  stay. 
Night  treads  upon  the  heels  of  day ; 
There  is  no  other  resting  place  this  way. 

The  Rock  is  near, 

The  well  is  clear  — 
Rest  in  the  Shadow  of  the  Rock ! 

The  Shadow  of  the  Rock ! 

The  desert  wide 
Lies  round  thee  like  a  trackless  tide, 
In  waves  of  sand  forlornly  multiplied. 

The  sun  is  gone, 

Thou  art  alone  — 
Rest  in  the  Shadow  of  the  Rock  I 

The  Shadow  of  the  Rock! 
Night  veils  the  land ; 


182  '  aATHERED  SHEAVES. 


How  the  palms  whisper  as  they  stand ! 

How  the  well  tinkles  faintly  through  the  sand! 

Cool  water  take 

Thy  thirst  to  slake  — 
Rest  in  the  Shadow  of  the  Rock  I 

The  Shadow  of  the  Rock! 
Abide !    Abide ! 
This  rock  moves  ever  at  thy  side, 
Pausing  to  welcome  thee  at  eventide. 
Ages  are  laid 
Beneath  its  shade — 
Rest  in  the  Shadow  of  the  Rock! 

The  Shadow  of  the  Rock  I 
Always  at  hand, 
Unseen  it  cools  the  noon-tide  land, 
And  quells  the  fire  that  flickers  in  the  sand. 
It  comes  in  sight 

Only  at  night,  — 
Rest  in  the  Shadow  of  the  Rock.** 

The  Female  portion  of  the  school  recite  : 

As  the  hart  panteth  after  the  water  brooks, 
SO  panteth  my  soul  after  thee,  O  God. 

My  soul  thirsteth  for  God,  for  the  living 
God  :  when  shall  I  come  and  appear  before 
God?  — Psa.  42:  1,  2. 

The  Male  portion  of  the  school  recite  : 

O  God,  thou  art  my  God ;  early  will  I 
seek  thee  :  my  soul  thirsteth  for  thee,  my 
flesh  longetli  for  thee  in  a  dry  and  thirsty 
land,  where  no  water  is  ; —  Psa  63  :  1. 


THE  SMITTEN  ROCK. 


183 


All  recite : 

Oh  come  let  us  sing  unto  the  Lord :  let  us 
make  a  joyful  noise  to  the  rock  of  our  sal- 
vation. —  Psa.  95  :  1. 

School  and  Congregation  unite  in  singing : 

Safe  in  the  Arms  of  Jesus."  Winnowed 
Hymns. 


BEAR  THE  CROSS-WEAE  THE 
CROWN. 


BEAR THE 
CROSS 


NorE. — Prepare  a  cross  and  an  arcli  fiimi- 
lar  in  style  to  the  plan  given  above.  The 

187 


188  GATHEBED   SHEi^  VES. 


cross  and  arch  may  be  made  of  wood,  and 
painted  or  decorated  according  to  fancy. 
Prepare  letters  forming  the  mottoes,  "Bear 
the  Cross  and  Wear  the  Crown,"  accord- 
ing to  directions  given  in  preceding  exer- 
cises. After  the  recitation,  There's  a 
crown  for  the  Christian,"  a  crown  made 
of  flowers  should  be  placed  on  the  top  of 
the  arch  ;  and  then  all  should  unite  in  sing- 
ing, "Must  Jesus  bear  the  cross  alone?" 
The  questions  are  to  be  asked  by  the  super- 
intendent, or  the  one  who  conducts  the  ex- 
ercise. 

THE  EXERCISE. 

SiNGlKG :  "  No  work  to  do  ?  "  Bo^/al  Di- 
adem^ p.  140. 

Ques.  What  was  one  of  our  Saviour's 
commands  ? 

And  when  he  had  called  the  people  unto  him,  with  his  disci- 
ples also,  he  said  unto  them.  Whosoever  will  come  after  me,  let 
him  den}^  himself,  and  take  up  his  cross,  and  follow  me. — ^Mark 
8:34. 

Ques.  What  is  it  to  bear  the  cross  of 
Christ? 

First  Scholar  (placing  B  on  the  cross).  It 
is  to  believe  on  him. 

And  they  said.  Believe  on  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  thou 
shalt  be  saved,  and  thy  house.— Acts  16 :  31. 


BEAR  THE  CROSS.  189 


Second  Scholar  (placing  E  on  the  crosii).— 
It  is  to  enlist  in  his  service. 

Fight  the  good  fight  of  faith,  lay  hold  on  eternal  life  where- 
unto  thou  art  also  called,  and  hast  professed  a  good  profession 
before  many  witnesses. — 1  Tim.  6  : 12. 

Third  Scholar  (placing  A  on  the  cross). — 
It  is  to  acknowledge  him  before  men. 

Whosoever  denieth  the  Son,  the  same  hath  not  the  Father : 
but  he  that  acknowledge th  the  Son  hath  the  Father  also. — 
1  John  2 :  23. 

Fourth  Scholar  (placing  R  on  the  cross). — 
It  is  to  renounce  the  world. 

So  likewise,  whosoever  he  be  of  you  that  forsaketh  not  all 
that  he  hath,  he  cannot  be  my  disciple. — Luke  14 :  33. 

Fifth  Scholar  (placing  T  on  the  cross.) — It 
is  to  trust  him. 

For  therefore  we  both  labor  and  suffer  reproach,  because  we 
trust  in  the  living  God,  who  is  the  Saviour  of  all  men,  specially 
of  those  that  believe. — 1  Tim.  4 : 10. 

Sixth  Scholar  (placing  H  on  the  cross). — 
It  is  to  be  humble. 

Whosoever  therefore  sh  ill  humble  himself  as  this  little  child, 
the  same  is  greatest  in  the  kingdom  of  heaven. — Matt.  18 :  4. 

Seventh  Scholar  (placing  E  on  the  cross). 
— It  is  to  earnestly  contend  for  the  faith. 

Watch  ye,  stand  fast  in  the  faith,  quit  you  like  men,  be 
strong.— 1  Cor.  16 :  13. 


190  GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


Eighth  Scholar  (placing  C  on  the  cross), 
• — It  is  to  confess  him. 

That  if  thou  shalt  confess  with  thy  mouth  the  Lord  Jesus, 
and  shalt  believe  in  thine  heart  that  God  hath  raised  him  from 
the  dead,  thou  shalt  be  saved. — Rom.  10 :  9. 

Ninth  Scholar  (placing  R  on  the  cross). — 
It  is  to  repent  of  sin. 

Except  ye  repent,  ye  shall  all  likewise  perish. — Luke  13 :  3. 

Tenth  Scholar  (placing  O  on  the  cross). — 
It  is  to  obey  his  commands. 

If  ye  be  willing  and  obedient,  ye  shall  eat  the  good  of  the 
land.— Isa.  1 :  19. 

Eleventh  Scholar  (placing  S  on  the  cross). 
— It  is  to  speak  for  him. 

Whosoever  therefore  shall  be  ashamed  of  me  and  my  words, 
in  this  adulterous  and  sinful  generation,  of  him  also  shall  the 
Son  of  man  be  ashamed,  when  he  cometh  in  the  glory  of  his 
Father  with  the  holy  angels.— Mark  8 ;  38. 

Twelfth  Scholar  (placing  S  on  the  cross). 
— It  is  to  practice  self-denial. 

And  he  said  to  them  all,  If  any  man  will  come  after  me,  let 
him  deny  himself,  and  take  up  his  cross  daily,  and  follow  me. 
For  whosoever  will  save  his  life  shall  lose  it ;  but  whosoever  will 
lose  his  life  for  my  sake,  the  same  shall  save  it. — Luke  9  ;  23, 
24. 

Thirteenth  Scholar, — 

RECITATION. 
Oh,  what,  if  we  are  Christ's, 

Is  earthly  shame  or  loss  ? 
Bright  shall  the  crown  of  glory  be, 

When  we  have  borne  the  cross. 


BEAB  THE  CEOSS. 


191 


Keen  was  the  trial  once, 

Bitter  the  cup  of  woe, 
"When  martyred  saints  baptized  in  blood 

Christ's  sufferings  here  below. 

Bright  is  their  glory  now, 

Boundless  their  joy  above, 
Where,  on  the  bosom  of  their  God, 

They  rest  in  perfect  love. 

Lord,  may  that  grace  be  ours, 

Like  them  in  faith  to  bear 
All  that  of  sorrow,  grief,  or  pain, 

May  be  our  portion  here. 

SINGING. 

In  the  cross  of  Christ  I  glory, 

Towering  o'er  the  wrecks  of  time : 

All  the  light  of  sacred  story 
Gather  round  its  head  sublime. 

When  the  woes  of  life  o'ertake  me, 

Hopes  deceive  and  fears  annoy. 
Never  shall  the  cross  forsake  me  ; 

Lo,  it  glows  with  peace  and  joy. 

Ques,  —  What  rewards  are  promised  the 
faithful  cross-bearer  ? 

Fourteenth  Scholar  (placing  W  on  the 
arch).  —  A  welcome  in  heaven. 

Come  unto  me,  all  ye  that  labor  and  are  heavy  laden,  and  I 
will  give  you  rest.  — Matt.  11 :  28. 

Fifteenth  Scholar  (placing  E  on  the  arch). 
—  Everlasting  life. 

And  he  said  unto  them,  Yerily  I  say  unto  you,  There  is  no 
man  that  hath  left  house,  or  parents,  pr  brethren,  or  Avife,  or 


192  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


children,  for  the  kingdom  of  God's  sake,  who  shall  not  receive 
manifold  more  in  this  present  time,  and  in  the  world  to  come, 
life  everlasting  —  Luke  18  :  29,  30. 

Sixteenth  Scholar  (  placing  A  on  the 
arch),  —  An  enduring  substance. 

 Ye  have  in  heaven  a  better  and  an  enduring  substance. 

—  Heb.  10:34. 

Seventeenth  Scholar  (placing  R  on  the 
arch).  — Rest. 

There  remaineth  therefore  a  rest  to  the  people  of  God  — 
Heb.  4:  9. 

Eighteenth  Scholar  (placing  T  on  the 
arch).  —  Treasures  in  heaven. 

Jesus  said  unto  him,  If  thou  wilt  be  perfect,  go  and  sell  that 
thou  hast,  and  give  to  the  poor,  and  thou  shalt  have  treasure 
in  heaven :  and  come  and  follow  me.  — Matt.  19  :  21. 

Nineteenth  Scholar  (placing  H  on  the 
arch).  —  Heirship  with  Christ. 

And  if  children,  then  heirs;  heirs  of  God,  and  joint-heirs 
with  Christ ;  if  so  be  that  we  suffer  with  him,  that  we  may  be 
also  glorified  together.  —  Rom.  8 :  17. 

Twentieth  Scholar  (placing  E  on  the  arch). 

—  Eternal  weight  of  glory. 

For  our  light  affliction,  which  is  but  for  a  moment,  worketh 
for  us  a  far  more  exceeding  and  eternal  weight  of  glory. — 2 
Cor.  4:17. 

Twenty-first  Scholar  (placing  C  on  the 
arch).  —  A  city  that  hath  foundations. 

For  he  looked  for  a  city  which,  hath  foundations,  whose  buila- 
er  and  maker  is  God.  —  Heb.  11 : 10. 


BEAR  THE  CROSS. 


193 


Twenty-second  Scholar  (placing  R  on  the 
arch).  — Reigning  with  Christ. 

If  we  suffer,  we  shall  also  reign  with  him :  if  we  deny  him 
he  also  will  deny  us.  —  2  Tim.  2 :  12. 

Twenty-third  Scholar  (placing  O  on  the 
arch).  —  Outshine  the  stars. 

And  they  that  be  wise  shall  shine  as  the  brightness  of  the 
firmament ;  and  they  that  turn^  many  to  righteousness  as  the 
stars  for  ever  and  ever.  — Dan.  12  :  3. 

Twenty-fourth  Scholar  (placing  W  on  the 
arch). —  Wealth  and  Riches  in  heaven. 

And  Jesus  answered  and  said,  Verily  I  say  unto  you,  There 
is  no  man  that  hath  left  house,  or  brethren,  or  sisters,  or  father, 
or  mother,  or  wife,  or  children,  or  lands,  for  my  sake,  and  the 
gospel's,  but  he  shall  receive  an  hundredfold  now  in  this  time, 
houses  and  brethren,  and  sisters,  and  mothers,  and  children, 
and  lands,  with  persecutions  ;  and  in  the  world  to  come  eternal 
life.  — Mark  10:29,  30. 

Twenty-fifth  Scholar  (placing  N  on  the 
arch).  —  No  condemnation  for  sin. 

There  is  therefore  now  no  condemnation  to  them  which  are  in 
Christ  Jesus,  who  walk  not  after  the  flesh,  but  after  the  Spirit. 
—  Rom.  8  1. 

Ques.  —  How  has  this  cross-bearer  been 
described  ? 

Twenty-sixth  Scholar.  —  A  crown  of  right- 
eousness. 

Henceforth  there  is  laid  up  for  me  a  crown  of  righteousness, 
which  the  Lord,  the  righteous  judge,  shall  give  me  at  that  day: 
and  not  to  me  only,  but  unto  all  them  also  that  love  his  appear- 
ing. —  2  Tim.  4  :  8. 


194  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Twenty-seventh  Scholar.  —  A  crown  of  glory. 

And  when  the  chief  Shepherd  shall  appear,  ye  shall  receive 
a  crown  of  glory  that  fadeth  not  away.  —  1  Peter  5:  4. 

Twenty-eighth  Scholar.  —  A  crown  of  life. 

Blessed  is  the  man  that  endureth  temptation  :  for  when  he  is 
tried,  he  shall  receive  the  crown  of  life,  which  the  Lord  hath 
promised  to  them  that  love  him.  —  James  1 : 12. 

Twenty-ninth  Scholar.  —  A  crown  of  re- 
joicing. 

For  what  is  our  hope,  or  joy,  or  crown  of  rejoicing?  Are  not 
even  ye,  in  the  presence  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  at  his  com- 
ing?  For  ye  are  our  glory  and  joy.  —  1  Thes.  2 :  19  :  20. 

Thirtieth  Scholar.  —  An  incorruptible  crown. 

And  every  man  that  striveth  for  the  mastery  is  temperate  in 
all  things.  Now  they  do  it  to  obtain  a  corruptible  crown :  but 
we  an  incorruptible.  —  1  Cor.  9 :  25. 

Thirty-first  Scholar. 

RECITATION*. 

There's  a  crown  for  the  Christian,  a  crown  of  life, 
Gained  in  the  issue  of  bloodless  strife ; 
'Tis  a  halo  of  hope,  of  joy,  and  of  love, 
Brightened  by  sunbeams  from  fountains  above. 
They've  gathered  its  hues  from  sources  afar, 
From  seraphim's  eyes  and  Bethlehem's  star, 
And  the  flow  of  its  light  will  ever  increase, 
For  the  Christian's  brow  is  a  brow  of  peace. 

The  superintendent,  or  some  one  he  may 
select,  here  places  the  crown  on  the  centre 
of  the  arch.    Then  all  rise  and  sing  : 


BEAR  THE  CROSS. 


Must  Jesus  bear  the  cross  alone, 

And  all  the  world  go  free? 
No ;  there* s  a  cross  for  every  one, 

And  there's  a  cross  for  me. 

This  consecrated  cross  I'll  bear, 
Till  death  shall  set  me  free, 

And  then  go  home  my  crown  to  wear, 
For  there's  a  crown  for  me. 

Oh,  precious  cross!  oh,  glorious  crown! 

Oh,  resurrection  day ! 
Ye  angels  from  the  stars  come  down, 

And  bear  my  soul  away. 


BENEDICTION. 


THE  BIBLE. 


Directions.  The  questions  in  this  Exer- 
cise are  to  be  asked  by  the  Superintendent, 
and  the  answers  given  by  different  members 
of  the  school.  Under  the  several  heads  ref- 
erences are  given  in  order  that  the  answer 
may  be  increased  to  a  Class  Recitation  if  de- 
sired. 

THE  EXERCISE. 

Sikging:  "The  Bible  Song."  Pure  adld, 
p.  105. 

Ques.    For  what  was  the  Bible  written  ? 
Ans.    For  our  instruction. 

For  whatsoever  things  were  written  aforetime,  were  written 
for  our  learning,  that  we,  through  patience  and  comfort  of  the 
Scriptures,  might  have  hope.— Kom.  15 :  4.  ^ 
199 


200 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Ques.    Who  was  the  author  of  the  Bible  ? 

Ans.  For  the  prophecy  came  not  in  old 
time  by  the  will  of  man  ;  but  holy  men  of 
God  spake  as  they  were  moved  by  the  Holy 
Spirit.— 2  Peter  1 :  21. 

Ques.  Did  the  sacred  writers  profess  to 
be  inspired  ? 

Ans,  Now  we  have  received,  not  the 
spirit  of  the  world,  but  the  Spirit  which  is 
of  God  ;  that  we  might  know  the  things  that 
are  freely  given  to  us  of  God. 

Which  things  also  we  speak,  not  in  the 
words  which  man's  wisdom  teacheth,  but 
which  the  Hoty  Spirit  teacheth ;  comparing 
spiritual  things  with  spiritual. — 1  Cor.  2 : 
12,  18  ;  Isa.  6  :  6—10  ;  Jer.  1 :  7—10  ;  Ezek. 
1 :  3  ;  Gal.  1 :  11,  12. 

Ques.    How  is  the  Bible  described  ? 

Ans,    As  Pure. 

The  words  of  the  Lord  are  pure  words :  as  silver  tried  in  a 
furnace  of  earth,  purified  seven  times. — Psa.  12 :  6. 

Thy  word  is  very  pure  :  therefore  thy  serA^ant  loveth  it. — ^Psa. 
119  :  140. 

Every  word  of  God  is  pure  :  he  is  a  shield  unto  them  that  put 
their  trust  in  him. — Prov.  30 :  5. 

As  True. 

Thy  word  is  true  from  the  beginning ;  and  every  one  of  thy 
righteous  judgment  endureth  forever. — Psa.  119 : 160. 

Sanctify  them  through  thy  truth ;  thy  word  is  truth. — John 
17:17. 


THE  BIBLE. 


201 


As  Perfect. 

The  law  of  the  Lord  is  perfect,  converting  the  soul ;  the  testi- 
mony of  the  Lord  is  sure,  making  wise  the  simple. — Psa.  19  :  7. 

As  Precious. 

More  to  be  desired  are  they  than  gold,  yea,  than  much  fine 
gold  ;  sweeter  also  than  honey  and  the  honeycomb.   Ps.  19  : 10. 

As  Powerful. 

For  the  word  of  God  is  quick  and  powerful,  and  sharper  than 
any  two-edged  sword,  piercing  even  to  the  dividing  asunder  of 
soul  and  spirit,  and  of  the  joints  and  marrow,  and  is  a  discerner 
of  the  thoughts  and  intents  of  the  heart. — ^Heb.  4 : 12. 

As  Spiritual. 

For  we  know  that  the  law  is  spiritual :  but  I  am  carnal,  sold 
unto  sin. — Rom.  7 :  14. 

As  Holy. 

Wherefore  the  law  is  holy,  and  the  commandment  holy,  and 
just,  and  good. — Rom.  7 : 12. 

As  Broad. 

I  have  seen  an  end  of  all  perfection ;  but  thy  commandment 
is  exceeding  broad. — Psa.  119 :  96. 

RECITATION. 

WHAT  THE  BIBLE  TELLS  US. 

This  is  a  precious  book  indeed, 
Happy  the  child  who  loves  to  read; 
'Tis  God's  own  book  which  he  has  given 
To  show  our  souls  the  way  to  heaven. 

It  tells  us  how  the  world  was  made. 
And  how  good  men  the  Lord  obeyed ; 
And  his  commands  are  in  it  too, 
To  teach  us  what  we  ought  to  do. 


202  GATHEBED  SHEAVES. 


And  what  is  more  than  all  besides, 
The  Bible  tells  us  Jesus  died ; 
This  is  its  first,  its  chief  intent, 
To  lead  poor  sinners  to  repent. 

Let  us  be  thankful  that  we  may, 
Read  this  good  Bible  every  day  ; 
And  learn  the  way  that  God  hath  given 
To  lead  our  souls  to  peace  and  heaven. 


PRIMARY  CLASS  EXERCISE. 

THE  BEST  BOOK  FOR  CHILDREN. 

JVote.  The  teacher  of  the  Primary  Class 
is  to  ask  the  questions^  and  the  answers  may 
be  given  by  the  class  in  concert,  or  singly  as 
the  teacher  thinks  most  desirable. 

All  the  class  recite  : 

Blessed  are  the  undefiled  in  the  way,  who  walk  in  the  law 
of  the  Lord. 

Blessed  are  they  that  keep  his  testimonies,  and  that  seek  him 
with  the  whole  heart. 

They  also  do  no  iniquity ;  they  walk  in  his  ways. 

Thou  hast  commanded  us  to  keep  thy  precepts  diligently. 

O  that  my  ways  were  directed  to  keep  thy  statutes ! — Fs.  119  : 
1—5. 

Ques.    What  is  the  best  book  God  has 
given  to  children  ? 
Ans.    The  Bible. 


THE  BIBLE. 


203 


Ques.  Why  is  the  Bible  the  best  of 
books  ? 

Ans.  Because  it  shows  us  the  way  to 
heaven. 

Ques.  How  ought  we  to  feel  toward  God 
for  giving  it  to  us  ? 

Ans.  We  ought  to  be  very  thankful. 

Ques.  Does  the  Bible  teach  us  to  be  holy  ? 
Ans.    It  does. 

Ques.    What  is  it  to  be  holy  ? 
Ans.    It  is  to  be  so  very  good  as  not  to 
speak  anything  bad. 

ALL  THE  CLASS  EEPEAT  : 

0  Lord,  thy  perfect  word 

Directs  our  steps  aright ; 
Nor  can  all  other  books  afford 

Such  profit  or  delight. 

Ques.  What  proves  that  the  Bible  came 
from  God? 

Ans.  Because  it  declares  many  things 
that  God  only  could  know. 

Ques.    What  part  of  the  Bible  contains 
the  account  of  our  Saviour's  Life  ? 
Ans.    The  New  Testament. 

Ques.  What  did  He  say  about  the  Bible 
when  talking  with  the  Jews  ? 


204  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Arts,  Search  the  Scriptures ;  for  in  them 
ye  think  ye  have  eternal  life  and  they  are 
they  which  testify  of  me. 

THE  CLASS  SING  OR  RECITE  ; 

Lord,  thy  words  are  dearer  far, 
Than  earth's  choicest  treasures  are : 
Purest  gold  or  costly  gem, 
Are  but  dust  compared  with  them. 

Singing  :  "  My  precious  Bible."  Silve? 
Spray ^  7. 

RECITATION. 

Thank  God  for  the  Bible,  'tis  there  that  we  find, 

The  story  of  Christ  and  his  love  — 
How  he  came  down  to  earth  from  his  beautiful  home, 
In  the  mansions  of  glory  above ; 
Thanks  to  him  we  will  bring. 
Praise  to  him  we  will  sing. 
For  he  came  down  to  earth  from  his  beautiful  home, 
In  the  mansions  of  glory  above. 

In  the  Bible  we  read  of  a  beautiful  land, 

Where  sorrow  and  pain  never  come ; 
For  Jesus  is  there  with  a  heavenly  band 
And  'tis  there  he's  prepared  us  a  home  ; 
Jesus  calls,  shall  we  stay? 
No,  we  gladly  obey. 
For  Jesus  is  there  with  a  heavenly  band, 
And  'tis  there,  he's  prepared  us  a  home. 

Thank  God  for  the  Bible  ;  its  truths  o'er  the  earth 
We'll  scatter  with  a  bountiful  hand  ; 

But  we  never  can  tell  what  a  Bible  is  worth 
Till  we  go  to  that  beautiful  land. 
There  our  thanks  we  will  bring, 


THE  BIBLE. 


205 


There  with  angels  we'll  sing, 
And  its  worth  we  can  tell  when  with  Jesus  we  dwell, 
In  heaven  —  that  beautiful  land. 

Ques.    For  what  is  the  Bible  given  us  ? 
Ans.    To  make  us  wise  unto  salvation.  — 
2  Tim.  3 :  15. 

And  that  from  a  child  thou  hast  known  the  holy  scriptures, 
which  are  able  to  make  thee  wise  unto  salvation  through  faith 
which  is  in  Christ  Jesus. 

For  safety.  —  Acts  11 :  14. 

Who  shall  tell  thee  words,  whereby  thou,  and  all  thy  house 
shall  be  saved. 

For  a  guide.  —  2  Peter  1 :  19. 

We  have  also  a  more  sure  word  of  prophecy,  whereunto  ^''e 
do  well  that  ye  take  heed,  as  unto  a  light  that  shineth  in  a  dark 
place,  until  the  day  dawn,  and  the  day  star  arise  in  your  hearts : 

For  doctrine^  reproofs  &[>c,  —  2  Tim.  3 :  16. 

All  scripture  is  given  by  inspiration  of  God,  and  is  profitable 
for  doctrine,  for  reproof,  for  correction,  for  instruction  in  right- 
eousness. 

For  sanctification. — John  17  ;  17,  18,  19. 

Sanctify  them  through  thy  truth  :  thy  word  is  truth. 

As  thou  hast  sent  me  into  the  world  :  even  so  have  I  also  sent 
them  into  the  world. 

And  for  tLeir  sakes  I  sanctify  myself,  that  they  also  might  be 
sanctified  through  the  truth. 

For  our  temporal  good.  —  Acts  20  :  32. 

And  now  brethren,  I  commend  you  to  God,  and  to  the  word 
of  his  grace,  which  is  able  to  build  you  up,  and  to  give  you  an 
inheritance  among  all  them  which  are  sanctified. 


206  GATHERED  SHJJAVES. 


For  our  comfort.  —  Rom.  15  :  4. 

For  whatsoever  things  were  written  aforetime,  were  written  for 
our  learning,  that  we  through  patience  and  comfort  of  the  script- 
ures might  have  hope. 

Ques.    How  should  the  Bible  be  read  ? 
With  Reverance. 

I  will  hear  what  God  the  Lord  will  speak :  for  he  will  speak 
peace  unto  his  people,  and  to  his  saints ;  but  let  them  not  turn 
again  to  folly. — Ps.  85  :  8. 

With  Faith. 

Teach  me  good  judgment  and  knowledge  ;  for  I  have  believed 
thy  commandments. — ^Ps.  119  :  66. 

With  Meekness. 

Wherefore,  lay  apart  all  filthiness  and  superfluity  of  naughti- 
ness, and  receive  with  meekness  the  engrafted  word,  which  is 
able  to  save  your  souls. — Jas.  1 :  21.   Ps.  119 :  33. 

With  Prayer. 

Show  me  thy  ways,  0  Lord ;  teach  me  thy  paths. 
Lead  me  in  thy  truth,  and  teach  me  :  for  thou  art  the  God  of 
my  salvation :  on  thee  do  I  wait  all  the  day. — ^Ps.  25 :  4,  5. 

Daily. 

These  were  more  noble  than  those  in  Thessalonica,  in  that 
they  received  the  word  with  all  readiness  of  mind,  and  searched 
the  Scriptures  daily,  whether  those  things  were  so. — Acts  17  : 11. 

Ques.  The  Bible  is  sometimes  called  a 
Lamp :  why  is  it  ? 

Ans.  Thy  word  is  a  lamp  unto  my  feet, 
and  a  light  unto  my  path. — Psa.  119 :  105. 


THE  BIBLB. 


207 


The  entrance  of  thy  words  giveth  light ; 
it  giveth  understanding  unto  the  simple. — 
Psa.  119  :  130.  Also  in  Prov.  6  :  20—23  ; 
Eph.  5 :  13,  14  ;  Hosea  6 :  5  ;  2  Cor.  4 :  4. 

How  precious  is  the  book  divine, 

By  inspiration  given ! 
Bright  as  a  lamp  its  doctrines  shine, 

To  guide  our  souls  to  heaven. 

It  sweetly  cheers  our  drooping  hearts 

In  this  dark  vale  of  tears ; 
Life,  light,  and  joy,  it  still  imparts. 

And  quells  our  rising  fears. 

This  lamp  through  all  the  tedious  night 

Of  life  shall  guide  our  way, 
Till  we  behold  the  clearer  light 

Of  an  eternal  day. 

RECITATION. 

INSTRUCTION  IN  THE  BIBLE. 

I  love  the  volume  of  thy  word ; 
What  light  and  joy  those  leaves  afford 

To  souls  benighted  and  distressed ! 
Thy  precepts  guide  my  doubtful  way  ; 
Thy  fear  forbids  my  feet  to  stray ; 

Thy  promise  leads  my  heart  to  rest. 

Thy  threatenings  wake  my  slumbering  eyes, 
And  warn  me  where  my  danger  lies  ; 

But  'tis  thy  blessed  gospel.  Lord, 
That  makes  my  guilty  conscience  clean. 
Converts  my  soul,  subdues  my  sin. 

And  gives  a  free  but  large  reward. 

Who  knows  the  errors  of  his  thoughts  ? 
My  God,  forgive  my  secret  faults, 

And  from  presumptuous  sins  restrain ; 


208  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Accept  my  poor  attempts  of  praise, 
That  I  have  read  thy  book  of  grace, 
And  book  of  nature,  not  in  vain. 

Singing:  " Blessed  Bible."    Grolden  Censer^ 
p.  42. 

GENERAL  EXERCISE. 

CURIOUS  FACTS  ABOUT  THE  BIBLE. 

Ques.  How  many  books  in  the  Old  Test- 
ament ? 

Arts.  Thirty-nine. 

Ques.    How  many  chapters  ? 

Ans.    Nine  hundred  and  twenty-nine. 

Ques.    How  many  verses  ? 

Ans.  Twenty-three  thousand  two  hun- 
dred and  fourteen. 

Ques.    How  many  words  ? 
Ans.    Five  hundred  and  ninety-two  thou- 
sand four  hundred  and  thirty-nine. 

Ques.    How  many  letters  ? 
Ans.     Two  million  seven  hundred  and 
twenty-eight  thousand  one  hundred. 

Ques.     How  many  books  in  the  New 
Testament  ? 
Ans.  Twenty-seven. 


THE  BIBLE. 


209 


Ques.    How  many  chapters  ? 
Ans.    Two  hundred  and  sixty. 
Ques.    How  many  verses  ? 
Ans.    Seven  thousand  nine  hundred  and 
fifty-nine. 

Ques.    How  many  words  ? 
Ans.    One  hundred  and  eighty  one  thou- 
sand two  hundred  and  fifty-three. 

Ques.    How  many  letters  ? 

Ans.  Eight  hundred  and  thirty-eight 
thousand  three  hundred  and  eighty. 

Ques.  How  many  books,  chapters,  verses, 
words  and  letters  in  both  Old  and  New 
Testament  ? 

Ans.  Sixty-six  Books,  one  thousand  one 
hundred  and  eighty-nine  chapters,  thirty-one 
thousand  one  hundred  seventy-three  verses, 
seven  hundred  seventy-three  thousand  six 
hundred  ninety-two  words,  three  million, 
five  hundred  sixty-six  thousand  four  hun- 
dred eighty  letters. 

Ques.  What  is  the  middle  chapter,  also 
the  least  in  the  Bible  ? 

Ans.  One  hundred  and  seventeen  Psalm. 
Ques.    What  is  the  middle  verse  ? 


210  GATHEBED  SHEAVES. 


Ans.  Eighth  verse  of  the  one  hundred 
and  eighteenth  Psalm. 

Ques.  What  is  the  middle  book  in  the 
Old  Testament  ? 

Ans.  Proverbs. 

Ques.    Middle  chapter  ? 

Ans.    Twenty-ninth  chapter  of  Job. 

Ques.  Middle  book  of  the  New  Testa- 
ment ? 

Ans.    Second  Thessalonians. 
Ques.    Middle  chapters  ? 
Ans.    Thirteenth  and  fourteenth  chapters 
of  Romans. 

Ques.  What  is  the  least  verse  in  the 
Bible  ? 

Ans.    John  11 :  85. 

Ques.  How  many  times  does  the  word 
And  occur  ? 

Ans.  Thirty-five  thousand  five  hundred 
and  forty-three  times  in  the  Old,  and  ten 
thousand  six  hundred  and  eighty-four  times 
in  the  New  Testament,  making  forty-six 
thousand  two  hundred  twenty-seven  times  in 
both. 


THE  BIBLE. 


211 


Ques;.    How  many  times  Jehovahl 
Ans,    Six  thousand  eight  hundred  fifty- 
five  times. 

Ques.  What  verse  contains  all  the  letters 
of  the  alphabet  ? 

Ans.  Twenty-first  verse  of  the  seventh 
chapter  of  Ezra. 

Ques.    What  two  chapters  are  alike  ? 
Ans.    Nineteenth  of  2  Kings  and  thirty- 
seventh  of  Isaiah. 

Ques.    Who  collected  the  different  parts 
of  the  Old  Testament? 
Ans.  Ezra. 

Ques.  Who  divided  the  Bible  into  chap- 
ters and  verses  ? 

Ans.  It  was  divided  into  chapters  by 
Cardinal  Hugs,  about  1240,  and  into  verses 
'by  a  Jewish  Rabbi,  named  Mordecai  Nathan, 
about  1445. 

Ques.  How  many  persons  were  employed 
by  King  J ames  in  translating  the  Bible  into 
English  ? 

Ans.  Forty-seven  persons,  who  com- 
menced in  1606,  and  finished  it  for  publica- 
tion in  1611. 


212  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


QueB.  Into  how  many  languages  has  the 
Bible  been  translated  ? 

Ans.  The  British  and  Foreign  Bible  So- 
ciety have  published  the  Bible  entire,  or  in 
parts,  in  one  hundred  and  seventy-three  dif- 
ferent languages  or  dialects. 

Ques,  How  long  a  time  must  we  read 
daily  to  read  the  Bible  through  in  a  year  ? 

Ans.    Nine  minutes,  forty-two  seconds. 

Qms.  How  long  a  time  to  read  con- 
tinually ? 

Ans.    Fifty  nine  hours,  thirty  minutes. 
Singing:  "The  Bible."    Fresh  Laurels^ 
p.  89. 

RECITATION. 

The  Bible,  the  Bible,  more  precious  than  gold 
The  hopes  and  the  glories  the  pages  unfold ; 
Jt  speaks  of  a  Saviour  and  tells  of  his  love, 
It  shows  us  the  way  to  the  mansions  above. 

The  Bible,  the  Bible,  blest  volume  of  truth, 
How  sweetly  it  smiles  on  the  season  of  youth ; 
It  bids  us  seek  early  the  pearl  of  great  price, 
Ere  the  heart  is  enslaved  in  the  bondage  of  vice. 

The  Bible,  the  Bible,  we  hail  it  with  joy, 
Its  truths  and  its  glories  our  tongues  shall  employ ; 
We'll  sing  of  its  triumphs,  we'll  tell  of  its  worth, 
And  send  its  glad  tidings  afar  o'er  the  earth. 

The  Bible,  the  Bible,  the  valleys  shall  ring 
And  hill  tops  re-echo  the  notes  that  we  sing ; 
Our  banners  inscribed  with  its  precepts  and  rules, 
Shall  long  wave  in  triumph,  the  joy  of  our  Sichool. 


THE  BIBLE. 


213 


Ques.    Why  do  good  men  love  the  Bible  ? 

Ans.  The  law  of  the  Lord  is  perfect, 
converting  the  soul:  the  testimony  of  the 
Lord  is  sure,  making  wise  the  simple. 

The  statutes  of  the  Lord  are  right,  rejoic- 
ing the  heart :  the  commandment  of  the  Lord 
is  pure,  enlightening  the  eyes. 

The  fear  of  the  Lord  is  clean,  enduring  for 
ever:  the  judgments  of  the  Lord  are  true 
and  righteous  altogether. 

More  to  be  desired  are  they  than  gold, 
yea,  than  much  fine  gold  :  sweeter  also  than 
honey  and  the  honeycomb. 

Moreover,  by  them  is  thy  servant  warned : 
and  in  keeping  of  them  there  is  great  re- 
ward.      Psa.  19 :  7,  11. 

Ques.    Why  do  bad  men  dislike  it  ? 

Ans.  For  God  sent  not  his  Son  into  the 
world  to  condemn  the  world ;  but  that  the 
world  through  him  might  be  saved. 

He  that  believeth  on  him  is  not  condemn- 
ed :  but  he  that  believeth  not  is  condemned 
already,  because  he  hath  not  believed  in  the 
name  of  the  only  begotten  Son  of  God. 

And  this  is  the  condemnation,  that  light 
is  come  into  the  world,  and  men  loved  dark- 
ness rather  than  light,  because  their  deeds 
were  evil. 


214  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


For  every  one  that  doeth  evil  hateth  the 
light,  neither  cometh  to  the  light,  lest  his 
deeds  should  be  reproved.  —  John  3 :  17,  20. 

Ques.  What  is  the  advantage  of  studying 
the  Bible  ? 

Ans.  The  bands  of  the  wicked  have 
robbed  me  :  but  I  have  not  forgotten  thy  law. 

The  law  of  thy  mouth  is  better  unto  me 
than  thousands  of  gold  and  silver. 

Thou  through  thy  commandments  hast 
made  me  wiser  than  mine  enemies  :  for  they 
are  ever  with  me. 

How  sweet  are  thy  words  unto  my  taste ! 
yea,  sweeter  than  honey  to  my  mouth. 

Through  thy  precepts  I  get  understand- 
ing ;  therefore  I  hate  every  false  way. 

My  soul  is  continually  in  my  hand :  yet  do 
I  not  forget  thy  law. 

Therefore  I  love  thy  commandments  above 
gold  :  yea,  above  fine  gold. — Psalms  119,  61, 
72,  98,  103,  104,  109,  127. 

Ques.  What  is  the  danger  of  rejecting 
it? 

Ans.  And  if  any  man  hear  my  words, 
and  believe  not,  I  judge  him  not ;  for  I  came 
not  to  judge  the  world,  but  to  save  the 
world. 


THE  BIBLE. 


215 


He  that  rejecteth  me,  and  receiveth  not 
my  words,  hath  one  that  judgeth  him;  the 
word  that  I  have  spoken,  the  same  shall 
judge  him  in  the  last  day. — John  14  :  47,  48 
John  3  :  16  ;  Mark  16  :  16  ;  Luke  10  :  16  ; 
Heb  2:  3—10,  28;  12:  25. 

KECITATIOK. 

THE  WISDOM  OF  THE  BIBLE. 

"  Lamp  of  our  feet,  whereby  we  trace, 
Our  path  when  won't  to  stray ; 
Stream  from  the  font  of  heavenly  grace, 
Brook  by  the  traveller's  way. 

Bread  of  our  souls,  whereon  we  feed. 
True  manna  from  on  high  ; 
Our  guide,  our  chart,  wherein  we  read. 
Of  realms  beyond  the  sky. 

Pillar  of  fire  through  watches  dark, 

Or  radiant  cloud  by  day ; 

When  waves  would  whelm  our  tossing  bark, 

Our  anchor,  and  our  stay. 

Word  of  the  everlasting  God, 

Will  of  his  glorious  son  ; 

Without  thee,  how  could  earth  be  trod. 

Or  heaven  itself  be  won." 

Lord,  grant  us  all  aright  to  learn 
The  wisdom  it  imparts, 
And  to  its  heavenly  teaching  turn 
With  simple,  child-like  hearts. 

Ques.     In  view   of  these   things,  how 
should  the  Bible  be  regarded  ? 
Ans.    With  respect. 


216  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


I  will  meditate  in  thy  precepts,  and  have  respect  unto  thy 
ways. — Psa.  119  :  15. 

With  delight, 

I  will  delight  myself  in  thy  statutes ;  I  will  not  forget  thy 
word. 

And  I  will  delight  myself  in  thy  commandments  which  I 
have  loved.— Psalms  119 :  16,  47,  24,  77,  174. 

With  wonder. 

Open  thou  my  eyes,  that  I  may  behold  wondrous  things  out 
of  thy  law.— Psa.  119  ;  18. 

With  love. 

0  how  I  love  thy  law !  it  is  my  meditation  all  the  day. 

1  hate  vain  thoughts ;  but  thy  law  do  I  love. 

My  soul  hath  kept  thy  testimonies  ;  and  I  love  them  exceed- 
ingly.—Ps.  97,  113,  167. 

With  comfort. 

I  remembered  thy  judgments  of  old,  0  Lord ;  and  I  have 
comforted  myself. — Psa.  119  :  52. 

School  and  Congregation  unite  in  singing: 
Tune  Shirland : 

How  perfect  is  th}^  word ! 

And  all  thy  judgments  just! 
Forever  sure  thy  promise,  Lord, 

And  we  securely  trust. 

My  gracious  God,  how  plain 

Are  thy  directions  given  I 
O,  may  I  never  read  in  vain, 

But  find  the  path  to  heaven. 


STEPS  HEAVENWARD. 


Directions. — The  interest  of  this  Exercise  will  be  much  in- 
creased if  a  plan  something  like  the  design  given  above  is  ar- 
ranged.  Prepare  two  pieces  of  wood  for  the  sides  in  the  same 
manner  as  a  carpenter  prepares  the  supports  of  stairs,  thus: 
219 


220  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Also,  prepare  10  blocks  of  wood,  (boxes  made  of  thin  boards 
would  be  light  and  inexpensive),  and  letter  them  according  to 
diagram ;  the  two  supports  should  be  placed  as  far  apart  as  the 
boxes  are  long,  and  should  be  fastened  in  position  before  the 
exercises  commence.  When  the  "1st  Scholar"  has  recited,  he 
is  to  place  the  block  lettered  "Repent  "  at  the  foot  of  the  supports, 
then  the  "2d  Scholar,"  after  reciting,  places  "Good  Works," 
above  "Repent,"  and  so  on,  place  the  blocks  on  the  supports  in 
regular  order,  and  when  completed  a  series  of  "  Steps  Heaven- 
ward "  will  be  shown.  The  diagram  given  is  very  imperfect, 
and  was  only  given  to  furnish  some  idea  of  the  manner  it  was  to 
be  recited.  The  blocks  and  supports  can  be  made  of  any  desired 
size  to  suit  those  who  use  the  Exercise.  It  may  be  recited  with- 
out preparing  the  blocks,  by  simply  writing  on  the  blackboard 
the  names  of  the  Steps  in  the  order  they  are  recited. 

THE  EXERCISE. 

1st  Scholar.  —  The  first  step  heavenward  is 
Repentance. 

Now  I  rejoice,  not  that  ye  were  made  sorry,  but  that  ye  sor- 
rowed to  repentance :  for  ye  were  made  sorry  after  a  godly  man- 
ner, that  ye  might  receive  damage  by  us  in  nothing. 


STEPS  HEAYENWAED.  221 


For  godly  sorrow  worketh  repentance  to  salvation  not  to  be 
repented  of —2  Cor.  7:  9,  10. 

"Lord,  we  have  long  abused  thy  love, 
Too  long  indulged  our  sin; 
Our  aching  hearts  now  bleed  to  see 
What  rebels  we  have  been. 

O  for  those  humble,  contrite  tears, 

Which  from  repentance  flow, 
That  sense  of  guilt,  which,  trembling,  fears 

The  long-suspended  blow!  " 

The  goodness  of  God  leadeth  thee  to  repentance. — Rom  2:  4. 

Places  block,  "Repent." 

2d  Scholar. —  Gfood  Works. 

Having  your  conversation  honest  among  the  Gentiles:  that, 
whereas  they  speak  against  you  as  evil  doers,  the}^  may  by  your 
good  works,  which  they  shall  behold,  glorify  God  in  the  day  of 
visitation.— 1  Peter  2:  12. 

"  Blest  is  the  man  whose  softening  heart 
Feels  all  another's  pain; 
To  whom  the  supplicating  eye 
Is  never  raised  in  vain ;  — 

Whose  breast  expands  with  generous  warmth, 

A  brother's  woes  to  feel, 
And  bleeds  in  pity  o'er  the  wound 
He  wants  the  power  to  heal." 
Likewise  also  the  good  works  of  some  are  manifest  beforehand ; 
and  they  that  are  otherwise  cannot  be  hid. — 1  Tim  5 :  25. 

Places  block,  "  Good  Works." 
3d  Scholar. — Sincerity. 

Grace  be  with  all  them  that  love  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  in  sin- 
cerity.—Eph.  6 :  24. 

*'God  is  a  spirit,  just  and  wise; 
He  sees  our  inmost  mind ; 
In  vain  to  heaven  we  raise  our  cries. 
And  leave  our  hearts  behind. 


222  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Lord,  search  my  thoughts,  and  try  my  ways, 

And  make  my  soul  sincere ; 
Then  shall  I  stand  before  thy  face, 

And  find  acceptance  there." 

In  all  things  shewing  thyself  a  pattern  of  good  works :  in  doc- 
trine SHEWING  uncorruptness,  gravity,  sincerity. — Titus  2 :  7. 

Places  block,  "  Sincerity." 

4th  Scholar, —  Obedience, 

Know  ye  not,  that  to  whom  ye  yield  yourselves  servants  to 
obey,  his  servants  ye  are  to  whom  ye  obey ;  whether  of  sin  unto 
death,  or  of  obedience  unto  righteousness? — Rom.  6:  16. 

"  We  trust  in  thee ;  in  thee,  0  Lord, 
Is  full  redemption  found; 
Thy  mercy  pardons  every  sin, 
And  closes  every  wound." 

For  as  by  one  man's  disobedience  many  were  made  sinners,  so 
by  the  obedience  of  one  shall  many  be  made  righteous. 

Rom.  5:  19. 
Places  block,  "  Obedience." 

bth  Scholar, — Benevolence, 

He  which  soweth  sparingly  shall  reap  also  sparingl}-;  and  he 
which  soweth  bountifully  shall  reap  also  bountifully. 

Every  man  according  as  he  purposeth  in  his  heart,  so  let  iiim 
GIVE ;  not  grudgingly,  or  of  necessity :  for  God  loveth  a  cheerful 
giver.— 2  Cor.  9 :  6,  7. 

How  blest  is  he  who  fears  the  Lord, 

And  follows  his  commands, 
Who  lends  the  poor  without  reward, 

Or  gives  with  liberal  hands ! 

As  pity  dwells  within  his  breast 

To  all  the  sons  of  need, 
So  God  shall  answer  his  request 

With  blessings  on  his  seed." 


STEPS  HEAVENWAED.  223 


It  is  written,  He  hath  dispersed  abroad ;  he  hath  given  to  the 
poor :  his  righteousness  remaineth  for  ever. — 2  Cor.  9 :  9. 

Places  block,  Benevolence.** 

SINGING.  —  "  Living  for  Jesus." 

Royal  Diadem,   p.  136. 

Qth  Scholar. — Holiyiess. 

For  God  hath  not  called  us  unto  uncleanness,  but  unto  holiness. 

1  Thess.  4:  7. 

"  My  God,  permit  me  not  to  be 
A  stranger  to  myself  and  thee ; 
Amidst  a  thousand  thoughts  I  rove, 
Forgetful  of  my  highest  love. 

Be  earth,  with  all  her  scenes,  withdrawn; 

Let  noise  and  vanity  be  gone : 

In  secret  silence  of  the  mind 

My  heaven,  and  there  my  God,  I  find.** 

Follow  peace  with  all  men,  and  holiness,  without  which  no 
man  shall  see  the  Lord. — Heb.  12 :  14. 

Places  block,  "Holiness.** 

^th  Scholar, — Humility. 

Likewise,  ye  younger,  submit  yourselves  unto  the  elder.  Yea, 
all  OF  YOU  be  subject  one  to  another,  and  be  clothed  with  humili- 
ty: for  God  resisteth  the  proud,  and  giveth  grace  to  the  humble. 

Humble  yourselves  therefore  under  the  mighty  hand  of  God, 
that  he  may  exalt  you  in  due  time — 1  Peter  5:  5,  6. 

*'  To  smite  the  breast,  the  clothes  to  rend, 
God  asketh  not  of  thee : 
Thy  secret  soul  he  bids  thee  bend 
In  true  humility. 

0,  let  us,  then,  with  heartfelt  grief, 

Draw  near  unto  our  God, 
And  pray  to  him  to  grant  relief. 

And  stay  the  lifted  rod.** 


224 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


By  humility  and  the  fear  of  the  Lord  are  riches,  and  honour^ 
and  life.— Prov.  22 :  4. 

Places  block,  "  Humility.** 

9>th  Scholar. — Faith. 

Now  faith  is  the  substance  of  things  hoped  for,  the  evidence  of 
things  not  seen. — Heb.  11 :  1. 

Faith  works  with  power,  but  will  not  plead 

The  best  of  works  when  done ; 
It  knows  no  other  ground  of  trust 

But  in  the  Lord  alone." 

It  gives  no  title,  but  receives ; 

No  blessing  it  procures; 
Yet,  where  it  truly  lives  and  reigns, 

All  blessings  it  insures.'* 

But  without  faith  it  is  impossible  to  please  him  :  for  he  that 
Cometh  to  God  must  believe  that  he  is,  and  that  he  is  a  rewarder 
of  them  that  diligently  seek  him. — Heb.  11 :  6. 

Places  block,  "  Faith.** 


Qth  Scholar. — Hope. 


Which  HOPE  we  have  as  an  anchor  of  the  soul,  both  sure  and 
steadfast,  and  which  entereth  into  that  within  the  vail. 

Heb.  6:  19. 

"  'Tis  b}'  the  hope  of  joys  to  come 

We  walk  through  deserts  dark  as  night; 
Till  we  arrive  at  heaven  our  home, 
Hope  is  our  guide,  and  hope  our  light.*' 

And  every  man  that  hath  this  hope  in  him  purifieth  himself, 
even  as  he  is  pure. — 1  John  3:  3. 

Places  block,  "Hope.** 

\Oth  Scholar. — Love. 

If  a  man  say,  I  love  God,  and  hateth  his  brother,  he  is  a  liar; 
for  he  that  loveth  not  his  brother  whom  he  hath  fieen,  how  can 
he  love  God  whom  he  hath  not  seen  V 


STEPS  HEAVENWARD.  225 


And  this  commandment  have  we  from  him,  That  he  who  loveth 
God  love  his  brother  also. — 1  John  4:  20,  21. 

"Had  I  the  tongues  of  Greeks  and  Jews, 
And  nobler  speech  than  angels  use, 
If  love  be  absent,  I  am  found, 
Like  tinkling  brass,  an  empty  sound. 

Were  I  inspired  to  preach  and  tell 
All  that  is  done  in  heaven  and  hell,  — 
Or  could  my  faith  the  world  remove,  — 
Still  I  am  nothing  without  love.'* 

Let  brotherly  love  continue. — Heb.  13 :  1. 

Places  block,  "Love." 

School  and  Congregation  sing : 

"  So  let  our  lips  and  lives  express 
The  holy  gospel  we  profess ; 
So  let  our  works  and  virtues  shine, 
To  prove  the  doctrine  all  divine. 

Thus  shall  we  best  proclaim  abroad 
The  honors  of  our  Saviour  God, 
When  his  salvation  reigns  within. 
And  grace  subdues  the  power  of  sin. 


doluir\n  of  Secttitnde^. 


COLUMN  OF  BEATITUDES. 


THE  REVILED  I 


THE 
iPERSECUTED 


PEACEMAKERS 


THE 
PURE 


THE 
MERCIFUL 


THE 
GODLY 


THE 
MEEK 


THE 
MOURNER 


THE 
POOR  IN  SPIRIT 


230  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Directions.  Prepare  blocks,  lettered  with 
the  names  of  the  various  beatitudes,  similar 
in  style  to  diagram  given  above.  They  may 
be  made  of  wood,  and  painted  white,  with 
black  letters,  of  any  desired  size,  taking  care 
to  preserve  the  proportions.  Those  who  are 
to  recite  the  exercise  should  stand  in  a  half 
circle  round  the  column,  taking  position  dur- 
ing the  singing  of  "  Each  one  has  a  mission," 
and  return  to  their  seats  during  the  chant  of 
"  The  Beatitudes." 

THE  EXERCISE. 

Singing  ;  "  Each  one  has  a  mission." 
The  Prize,  p.  96. 

ALL  KECITE. 

And  seeing  the  multitudes,  he  went  up  into  a  mountain :  and 

when  he  was  set,  his  disciples  came  unto  him ; 
And  he  opened  his  mouth  and  taught  them,  saying, 
Blessed  are  the  poor  in  spirit ;  for  theirs  is  the  kingdom  of 

heaven  —Matt.  5  : 1,  2,  3. 

First  Scholar;  (laying  block,  The  Poor  in 

Spirit^, 

Whosoever  therefore  shall  humble  himself  as  this  little  child, 
the  same  is  greatest  in  the  kingdom  of  heaven. — Matt.  18 :  4. 

*'  Blest  are  the  humble  souls  that  see 
Their  emptiness  and  poverty  ; 
Treasures  of  grace  to  them  are  given, 
And  crowns  of  joy  laid  up  in  heaven. 

Before  honor  is  humility.— Prov.  18 : 12. 


COLUMN  OF  BEATITUDES.  231 


ALL  RECITE. 

Blessed  are  they  that  mourn ;  for  they  shall  be  comforted^ 
Matt.  5 :  4. 

Second  Scholar  (laying  block,  The  Mourner). 

It  is  better  to  go  to  the  house  of  mourning,  than  to  go  to  the 
house  of  feasting  ;  for  that  is  the  end  of  all  men ;  and  the  living 
will  lay  it  to  his  heart. 

Sorrow  is  better  than  laughter ;  for  by  the  sadness  of  the 
countenance  the  heart  is  made  better. — Eccles.  7 :  2,  3. 
"  Blest  are  the  men  of  broken  heart, 
Who  mourn  for  sin  with  inward  smart; 
The  blood  of  Christ  divinel}^  flows, 
A  healing  balm  for  all  their  woes. 

Blessed  is  the  man  whom  thou  chastenest,  0  Lord,  and  teach- 
est  him  out  of  thy  law. — Ps.  94 : 12. 

ALL  RECITE. 

Blessed  are  the  meek ;  for  they  shall  inherit  the  earth. — Matt. 
5:5. 

Third  Scholar ;  (laying  block,  The  Meek.) 

To  speak  evil  of  no  man,  to  be  no  brawlers,  but  gentle,  show- 
ing all  meekness  unto  all  men. — Titus  3  :  2. 

"  Blest  are  the  meek  who  stand  afar 
From  rage  and  passion,  noise  and  war, 
God  will  secure  their  happy  state. 
And  plead  their  cause  against  the  great. 
Brethren,  if  a  man  be  overtaken  in  a  fault,  ye  which  are 
spiritual,  restore  such  a  one  in  the  spirit  of  meekness  j  consider- 
ing thyself,  lest  thou  also  be  tempted — Gal.  6  ;  1. 

"Blest  are  the  meek,"  he  said, 
"Whose  doctrine  is  divine ; 
The  humble  minded  earth  possess, 
And  bright  in  heaven  will  shine. 
ALL  RECITE. 

Blessed  are  they  which  do  hunger  and  thirst  after  righteoufl* 
ness :  for  they  shall  be  filled. — Matt.  5 :  6. 


232  GATHEBED  SHEAVES. 


Fourth  Scholar ;  (laying  block,  The  Grodly). 

lie  that  walketh  righteously,  and  speaketh  uprightly ;  he 
that  despiseth  the  gain  of  oppressions,  that  shaketh  his  hands 
from  holding  of  bribes,  that  stoppeth  his  ears  from  hearing  of 
blood,  and  shutteth  his  eyes  from  seeing  evil : 

He  shall  dwell  on  high ;  his  place  of  defence  shall  be  the  mu- 
nitions of  rocks :  bread  shall  be  given  him  ;  his  waters  shall  be 
sure.— Isa.  35  :  15, 16. 

** Blest  are  the  souls  that  thirst  for  grace, 
Hunger  and  long  for  righteousness  ; 
They  shall  be  well  supply' d  and  fed 
With  living  streams  and  living  bread. 

But  the  path  of  the  just  is  as  the  shining  light,  that  shineth 
more  and  more  unto  the  perfect  day. — Prov.  4 :  18. 

ALL  RECITE. 

Blessed  are  the  merciful ;  for  they  shall  obtain  mercy. — ^Matt. 
5:7. 

Fifth  Scholar :  (laying  block,  The  Merciful). 

The  merciful  man  doeth  good  to  his  own  soul ;  but  he  that  is 
cruel  troubleth  his  own  flesh. — ^Prov.  11 :  17. 

"Blest  are  the  men  whose  bowels  move 
And  melt  with  sympathy  and  love  ; 
From  Christ,  the  Lord,  shall  they  obtain 
Like  sympathy  and  love  again. 

Be  ye  therefore  merciful,  as  youv  Father  also  is  merciful.— 
Luke  6 :  36. 

Singing:  ''The  Pure  in  Heart."  Fresh 
Laurels^  p.  46. 

ALL  RECITE. 

Blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart  j  for  th(^y  shall  see  God. — ^Matt. 
5:8. 


COLUMN  OF  BEATITUDES.  233 


Sixth  Scholar  ;  (laying  block,  The  Pure). 

Unto  the  pure  all  things  are  pure  ;  but  unto  them  that  arc  de- 
filed and  unbelieving  is  nothing  pure ;  but  even  their  mind  and 
conscience  is  defiled. — Titus  1 :  15. 

"  Blest  are  the  pure,  whose  hearts  are  clean 
From  the  defiling  power  of  sin  ; 
With  endless  pleasure  they  shall  see 
A  God  of  spotless  purity." 

Neither  be  partaker  of  other  men's  sins ;  keep  thyself  pu  je.— 
1  Tim.  5:  22. 

"  Blest  are  the  pure  in  heart, 
For  they  shall  see  our  Grod : 
The  secret  of  the  Lord  is  theirs : 
Their  soul  is  his  abode. 

Still  to  the  lowly  soul 

He  doth  himself  impart. 
And  for  his  temple  and  his  throne 

Selects  the  pure  in  heart. 

ALL  RECITE. 

Blessed  are  the  peacemakers ;  for  they  shall  be  called  the 
children  of  God.— Matt.  5  :  9. 

Seventh  Scholar ;  (laying  block,  The  Peace-- 
makers. 

Behold  how  good  and  pleasant  it  is  for  brethren  to  hold  to- 
gether in  unity ! 

It  is  like  the  precious  ointment  upon  the  head,  that  ran  down 
upon  the  beard,  even  Aaron's  beard ;  that  went  down  to  the 
skirts  of  his  garments  : — Psa.  133  :  1,  2. 

"  Blest  are  the  men  of  peaceful  life, 
Who  quench  the  coals  of  growing  strife ; 
They  shall  be  called  the  heirs  of  bliss, 
The  sons  of  God  — the  God  of  peace." 


234 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


If  it  be  possible,  as  much  as  lieth  in  you,  live  peaceably  with 
all  men.— Rom.  12  :  18. 

"  Blest  are  the  sons  of  peace, 
Whose  hearts  and  hopes  are  one, 
Whose  kind  designs  to  serve  and  please 
Through  all  their  actions  run." 

ALL  RECITE. 

Blessed  are  they  which  are  persecuted  for  righteousness'  sake: 
for  theirs  is  the  kingdom  of  heaven. — Matt.  5  :  10. 

Eighth  Scholar;  (laying  block,  The  Perse^ 
cuted). 

Fear  none  of  those  things  which  thou  shalt  suffer ;  behold,  the 
devil  shall  cast  some  of  you  into  prison,  that  ye  may  be  tried  ; 
and  ye  shall  have  tribulation  ten  days ;  be  thou  faithful  unto 
death,  and  I  will  give  thee  a  crown  of  life. — Rev.  2  :  10. 

"  Blest  are  the  faithful,  who  partake 
Of  pain  and  shame  for  .Jesus'  sake ; 
Their  souls  shall  triumph  in  the  Lord ; 
Eternal  life  is  their  reward. 

Beloved,  think  it  not  strange  concerning  the  fiery  trial  which 
is  to  try  you,  as  though  some  strange  thing  happened  unto  you : 

But  rejoice,  inasmuch  as  ye  are  partakers  of  Christ's  suffer- 
ings ;  that,  when  his  glory  shall  be  revealed,  ye  may  be  glad  also 
with  exceeding  joy. — 1  Pet.  4 :  12,  13. 

ALL  RECITE. 

Blessed  are  ye  when  men  shall  revile  you,  and  persecute  you, 
and  shall  say  all  manner  of  evil  against  you  falsely,  for  my 
sake. 

Rejoice,  and  be  exceeding  glad ;  for  great  is  j^our  reward  in 
heaven ;  for  so  persecuted  they  the  prophets  which  were  before 
you.— Matt.  5  :  11,  12. 


COLUMN  OF  BEATITUDES.  235 


Ninth  Scholar;  (laying block,  The  Reviled). 

Blessed  is  the  man  that  endureth  temptation  ;  for  when  he  ia 
tried,  he  shall  receive  the  crown  of  life,  which  the  Lord  hath 
promised  to  them  that  love  him. — Jas.  1 :  2. 

"  Blest  are  the  sufferers,  who  partake 
Of  pain  and  shame  for  Jesus'  sake : 
Their  souls  shall  triumph  in  the  Lord ; 
Glory  and  joy  are  their  reward.'* 

If  ye  be  reproached  for  the  name  of  Christ,  happy  are  ye  :  for 
the  spirit  of  glory  and  of  God  resteth  upon  you ;  on  their  part 
he  is  evil  spoken  of,  but  on  your  part  he  is  glorified. — 1  Pet.  4 : 
14. 

ALL  RECITE. 
"0,  blest  in  spirit  are  the  poor; 
The  heavenly  kingdom  ihQj  possess ; 
And  they  that  mourn  shall  mourn  no  more, 
The  mourners,  God  will  surely  bless. 

The  meek  in  heart,  the  Lord  will  bless, 
And  they  shall  dwell  in  all  the  land ; 
And  those  who  thirst  for  righteousness, 
They  shall  be  filled  from  God's  own  hand. 

0,  blessed  are  the  merciful, 
For  mercy  they  shall  sure  obtain ; 
And  blessed  are  the  pure  in  soul. 
For  they  God's  favor  shall  reclaim. 

O,  blest  are  they  who  strive  for  peace, 
For  they  shall  be  the  Lord's  delight : 
The  heavenly  kingdom  shall  increase, 
In  those  who  suffer  for  the  right. 

O,  blest  are  they  whom  men  revile, 
And  persecute  for  Jesus'  sake ; 
They  shall  rejoice  in  God's  own  smile, 
And  rich  reward  from  heaven  take.'* 


Singing  :  "  The  Beatitudes."  Fresh  Lau- 
rels^ p.  136. 


THE  MWM  OF  CHMST, 


THE  BIETH  OF  CHEIST. 

A  CHRISTMAS  STORY. 


Directions. — The  different  parts  of  this 
Exercise  are  to  be  recited  in  the  order  in  which 
they  are  numbered  ;  and  the  order  of  recita- 
tion should  be  so  perfectly  understood  by  those 
who  recite,  that  no  announcement  may  be 
necessary  from  beginning  to  end,  save  the 
mentioning  of  the  subjects  of  the  different 
parts,  and  the  selections  for  singing,  by  the 
Superintendent. 

THE  EXERCISE. 

SmGiNG : — "  Children,  sing  a  Christmas  Ca- 
rol.*'    Royal  Diadem^  p.  32. 

School  and  Superintendent  read  alternately 
selections  from  Isaiah,  52d  chaj)ter. 

239 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Awake,  awake ;  put  on  thy  strength,  0  Zion ;  put  on  thy  beau- 
tiful garments,  O  Jerusalem,  the  holy  city ;  for  henceforth  there 
shall  no  more  come  into  thee  the  uncircumcised  and  the  unclean. 

Shake  thyself  from  the  dust ;  arise,  and  sit  down,  O  Jerusalem ; 
loose  thyself  from  the  bands  of  thy  neck,  0  captive  daughter  of 
Zion, 

For  thus  saith  the  Lord,  Ye  have  sold  yourselves  for  nought; 
and  ye  shall  be  redeemed  without  money. 

For  thus  saith  the  Lord  God,  My  people  went  down  aforetime 
into  Egypt  to  sojourn  there;  and  the  Assyrian  oppressed  them 
without  cause. 

How  beautiful  upon  the  mountains  are  the  feet  of  him  that 
bringeth  good  tidings,  that  publisheth  peace ;  that  bringeth  good 
tidings  of  good  that  publisheth  salvation;  that  saith  unto  Zion 
Thy  God  reigneth ! 

Thy  watchmen  shall  lift  up  the  voice;  with  the  voice  together 
shall  they  sing:  for  they  shall  see  eye  to  eye,  when  the  Lord 
shall  bring  again  Zion. 

Break  forth  into  joy,  sing  together,  ye  waste  places  of  Jerusa- 
lem ;  for  the  Lord  hath  comforted  his  people,  he  hath  redeemed 
Jerusalem. 

The  Lord  hath  made  bare  his  holy  arm  in  the  eyes  of  all  the 
nations ;  and  all  the  ends  of  the  earth  shall  see  the  salvation  of 
our  God. 

PRAYER- 

Singing        Hark,  hark,  my  soul."  Pure 
Gold,  p.  94. 

SuPT. — Far  back  in  the  ages,  God  made 
known  his  will  to  the  world  by  messengers  to 
his  chosen  people,  Israel,  and  through  them 
to  the  nations.  The  messengers  were  called 
prophets,  and  although  they  lived  in  different 
periods  of  the  world,  separated  from  each 
other  by  centuries,  they  one  and  all  pointed 


THE  BIRTH  OF  CHRIST,  241 


forth  to  the  coming  of  a  Messiah,  who  would 
be  the  Saviour  of  the  world.  What  are  some 
of  these  prophecies  ? 

1. 

The  sceptre  shall  not  depart  from  Judah,  nor  a  lawgiver  from 
between  his  feet,  until  Shiloh  come;  and  unto  him  shall  the 
gathering  of  the  people  be. — Gen.  49 :  10. 

2. 

And  there  shall  come  forth  a  rod  out  of  the  stem  of  Jesse,  and 
a  Branch  shall  grow  out  of  his  roots: 

And  the  Spirit  of  the  Lord  shall  rest  upon  him,  the  spirit  of 
wisdom  and  understanding,  the  spirit  of  counsel  and  might,  the 
spirit  of  knowledge  and  of  the  fear  of  the  Lord  ; 

And  shall  make  him  of  quick  understanding  in  the  fear  of  the 
Lord;  and  he  shall  not  judge  after  the  sight  of  his  eyes,  neither 
reprove  after  the  hearing  of  his  ears. 

But  with  righteousness  shall  he  judge  the  poor,  and  reprove 
with  equity  for  the  meek  of  the  earth :  and  he  shall  smite  the 
earth  with  the  rod  of  his  mouth,  and  with  the  breath  of  his  lips 
shall  he  slay  the  wicked. 

And  righteousness  shall  be  the  girdle  of  his  loins,  and  faithful- 
nees  the  girdle  of  his  reins. — Isa.  11 :  1-5. 

3. 

Who  hath  believed  our  report  ?  and  to  whom  is  the  arm  of  the 
Lord  revealed  ? 

For  he  shall  grow  up  before  him  as  a  tender  plant,  and  as  a  root 
out  of  a  dry  ground ;  he  hath  no  form  nor  comeliness ;  and  when 
we  shall  see  him,  there  is  no  beauty  that  we  should  desire  him. 

He  is  despised  and  rejected  of  men;  a  man  of  sorrows,  and  ac- 
quainted with  grief;  and  we  hid  as  it  were  our  faces  from  him; 
he  wao  despised,  and  we  esteemed  him  not. — Isa.  53:  1,  2,  3. 
4. 

Surely  he  hath  borne  our  griefs,  and  carried  our  sorrows ;  yet 
we  did  esteem  him  stricken,  smitten  of  God,  and  afflicted. 

But  he  was  wounded  for  our  transgressions,  he  was  bruised  for 
our  iniquities;  the  chastisement  of  our  peace  was  upon  him; 
and  with  his  stripes  we  are  healed. — Isa.  53 :  4,  5. 


242  GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


5. 

All  we  like  sheep  have  gone  astray;  we  have  turned  every  one 
to  his  own  way;  and  the  Lord  hath  laid  on  him  the  iniquity  of 
us  all. 

He  was  oppressed,  and  he  was  afflicted,  yet  he  opened  not  his 
mouth :  he  is  brought  as  a  lamb  to  the  slaughter,  and  as  a  sheep 
before  her  shearers  is  dumb,  so  he  openeth  not  his  mouth. — Isa. 
53 :  6,  7. 

6. 

Behold,  the  Lord  hath  proclaimed  unto  the  end  of  the  world, 
Say  ye  to  the  daughter  of  Zion,  Behold,  thy  salvation  cometh; 
behold,  his  reward  is  with  him,  and  his  work  before  him. — Isa. 
62:  11. 

7. 

"  Swift  fl}^  the  years  and  rise  the  expected  mom, 
O,  spring  to  life,  auspicious  babe  be  born. 
Hark,  the  glad  sound  the  lonely  desert  cheers. 
Prepare  the  way,  a  God,  a  God  appears. 
A  God,  a  God,  the  vocal  hills  reply, 
The  rocks  proclaim  the  approaching  Deity. 
Lo,  earth  receives  him  from  the  bending  skies, 
Sink  down  ye  mountains  and  ye  valleys  rise; 
With  heads  declined,  ye  cedars  homage  pay, 
Be  smooth  ye  rocks,  ye  rapid  floods  give  way; 
The  Saviour  comes  by  ancient  bards  foretold. 
Hear  him  ye  earth,  let  all  the  earth  behold.** 

SuPT. — What  are  some  of  the  prophecies 
referring  to  the  birth  of  Christ  ? 

1. 

Therefore  the  Lord  himself  shall  give  you  a  sign ;  Behold,  a 
virgin  shall  conceive,  and  bear  a  son,  and  shall  call  his  name 
Immanuel. — Isa.  7:  14. 

2. 

For  unto  us  a  child  is  bom,  unto  us  a  son  is  given :  and  the  gov- 
emment  shall  be  upon  his  shoulder:  and  his  name  shall  be  called 
Wonderful,  Counsellor,  The  mighty  God,  The  everlasting  Father, 
The  Prince  of  Peace. 


THE  BIETH  OF  CSBIST. 


243 


Of  the  increase  of  his  government  and  peace  there  shall  be  no 
end,  upon  the  throne  of  David,  and  upon  his  kingdom,  to  order 
it,  and  to  establish  it  with  judgment  and  with  justice  from  hence- 
forth  even  for  ever  The  zeal  of  the  Lord  of  hosts  will  perform 
this.— Isa.  9 :  6,  7. 

t 

3. 

But  thou,  Bethlehem  Ephratah,  though  thou  be  little  among 
the  thousands  of  Judah,  yet  out  of  thee  shall  he  come  forth  unto 
me  that  is  to  be  ruler  in  Israel :  whose  goings  forth  have  been 
from  of  old,  from  everlasting. — Micah  5:  2. 

4. 

"Hark!  the  glad  sound!  the  Saviour  comeSy 

The  Saviour  promised  long! 
Let  every  heart  prepare  a  throne, 
And  every  voice  a  song. 

He  comes,  the  prisoner  to  release, 

In  Satan's  bondage  held; 
The  gates  of  brass  before  him  burst, 

The  iron  fetters  yield. 

He  comes,  from  thickest  films  of  vice 

To  clear  the  mental  ray, 
And  on  the  eyes  oppressed  with  night 

To  pour  celestial  day. 

He  comes,  the  broken  heart  to  bind. 

The  bleeding  soul  to  cure, 
And,  with  the  treasures  of  his  grace, 
Enrich  the  humble  poor. 

Our  glad  hosannas.  Prince  of  Peace, 

Thy  welcome  shall  proclaim, 
And  heaven's  eternal  arches  ring 

With  thy  beloved  name." 

Singing       Hallelujah,  hark,  from  above/' 
Royal  Diadem^  p.  64. 


244  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


THE  BIRTH  OF  CHRIST. 
1. 

And  it  came  to  pass  in  those  days  that  there  went  out  a  decree 
from  Cesar  Au:^ustus,  that  all  the  world  should  be  taxed. 

^  And  this  taxing  was  first  made  when  Cyrenius  was  governor 
of  Syria.)— Luke  2:1,  2. 

2. 

And  all  went  to  be  taxed,  every  one  into  his  own  city. 

And  Joseph  also  went  up  from  Galilee,  out  of  the  city  of  Naz- 
areth, into  Judea,  unto  the  city  of  David,  which  is  called  Beth- 
lehem; because  he  was  of  the  house  and  lineage  of  David;) 

To  be  taxed  with  Mary,  his  espoused  wife. — Luke  2:3,  4,  5. 

3. 

And  she  brought  forth  her  first  born  son,  and  wrapped  him 
in  swaddling  clothes,  and  laid  him  in  a  manger  ;  because  there 
was  no  room  for  them  in  the  inn. 

And  there  were  in  the  same  country  Shepherds  abiding  in  the 
field,  keeping  watch  over  their  flock  by  night. — Luke  2 ;  7,  8. 

4. 

"  Night,  night, 
No  sun  to  light  the  way ; 
Long  since  has  passed  the  day. 
The  moon  with  feeble  light 
Shines  faintly  on  the  night. 
Shepherds  lie  on  the  ground, 
While  quiet  reigns  around. 
The  flocks  graze  at  their  side, 
Desiring  nought  beside. 
No  sound  of  joy  or  mirth, — 
A  silence  fills  the  earth.'* 

5. 

But,  holy  shepherds,  soon  you'll  hear, 
Great  news,  glad  tidings  of  great  cheer 
The  angel  voices  shall  proclaim 
The  name  of  Jesus,  sweetest  name. 


THE  BIRTH  OF  CHRIST.  245 


6. 

And,  lo,  the  angel  of  the  Lord  came  upon  them,  and  the  glory 
of  the  Lord  shone  round  about  them  ;  and  they  were  sore  afraid. 

And  the  angel  said  unto  them.  Fear  not ;  for,  behold,  I  bring 
you  good  tidings  of  great  joy,  which  shall  be  to  all  people.— 
Luke  2  :  9 :  10. 

7. 

For  unto  you  is  born  this  day  in  the  city  of  David,  a  Saviour, 
which  is  Christ  the  Lord. 

And  this  shall  be  a  sign  unto  you :  Ye  shall  find  the  babe 
wrapped  in  swaddling  clothes,  lying  in  a  manger. — Luke  2 : 
.11,12. 

8. 

"Hark!  hark! 
Forms  are  seen  amid  the  air, 
Clad  in  white,  behold  how  fair. 
Angel  voices  too,  we  hear, 
Crying  loudly,  never  fear. 
Hear  them  shouting  from  afar 
Honor  to  the  morning  star. 
Hear  the  blessed  words  they  say, 
To  you  a  Saviour's  born  to-day.*' 

9. 

Calm  on  the  listening  ear  of  night 
Come  heaven's  melodious  strains, 

Where  wild  Judea  stretches  far 
Her  silver-mantled  plains. 

Celestial  choirs,  from  courts  above, 

Shed  sacred  glories  there, 
And  angels,  with  their  sparkling  lyres, 

Make  music  on  the  air. 

The  joyous  hills  of  Palestine 

Send  back  the  glad  reply, 
And  greet,  from  all  their  holv  heights, 

The  dayspring  from  on  high. 


246  GATHEEED  SHEAVES. 


O'er  the  blue  depths  of  Galilee 

There  comes  a  holier  calm, 
And  Sharon  waves,  in  solemn  praise, 

Her  silent  groves  of  palm. 

** Glory  to  God!  "  the  sounding  skies 

Aloud  with  anthems  ring : 
"Peace  to  the  earth,  good-will  to  men, 

From  heaven's  eternal  King  I  " 

10. 

And  suddenly  there  was  with  the  angel  a  multitude»of  the 

heavenly  host  praising  God,  and  saying, 

Glory  to  God  in  the  highest,  and  on  earth,  peace,  good  will 
toward  men. — Luke  2  :  13,  14. 

SiKGiNG:  ''Peace  upon  earth."  Pure 
Gold,  p.  100. 

A  CHRISTMAS  GARLAND  OF  CHRISTMAS 
POETRY. 

1. 

CHRISTMAS. 

"  Hark,  through  the  skies  the  glad  anthem  is  ringing, 

The  glory  effulgent  of  heaven  is  shown ; 
Angels  of  light  the  loud  chorus  are  singing, 
Jehovah's  dear  son,  the  Messiah,  to  own. 

Lo,  the  rude  shepherds  their  flocks  while  attending, 
And  wearied  of  watching,  are  startled  with  fright ; 

For  see,  a  bright  anjjel  —  in  clouds  is  descending. 
While  darkness  gives  place  to  a  heavenly  light. 

And  hearken  the  message  —  good  tidings  I  bring ; 

The  Saviour  long  promised,  in  Juda  is  born ; 
Oh,  hasten  to  greet  him,  and  worship  your  King, 

Ere  burst  o*er  the  mountains,  the  beams  of  the  mom* 


THE  BIHTH  OF  CHEIST. 


And  sudden,  all  heaven  with  melody  fired, 

In  rapt  adoration  the  chorus  prolong ; 
And  cherub  and  seraph  with  rapture  inspired, 

The  glad  allelulia  attune  in  their  song. 

To  God  in  the  highest  all  glory  be  given  ; 

And  peace  be  to  men  of  good  will  upon  earth. 
For  down  his  Redeemer  is  stooping  from  heaven, 

Rejoice  all  ye  lands  —  'tis  the  morn  of  his  birth.'* 

2. 

CHRISTMAS  BELLS. 

AN  ACROSTIC. 

"  Come  and  hear  the  Christmas  bells ; 
Hark !  they  call  me  from  my  lair ; 
Ringing,  jingling  here  and  there, 
Introducing  songs  m  air, 
Sweetly  sounding  everywhere, 
'Tis,  oh,  'tis  the  Christmas  bells! 
Merrily,  merrily,  now  they  ring, 
And  the  snow-flakes  seem  to  sing 
Songs  unknown  by  Christmas  bells. 

Bells  are  humming ;  bells  are  coming ; 
Even  now  I  hear  them  jingling  ; — 
Listen !  Christmas  bells  are  ringing ; 
Listen !  Angel  choirs  are  singing 
Songs  unknown  by  Christmas  bells." 

3. 

CHRISTMAS  CAROL. 

There's  a  song  in  the  air! 

There's  a  star  in  the  sky ! 
There's  a  mother's  deep  prayer 
And  a  baby's  low  cry! 
And  the  star  reigns  its  fire  while  the  Beautiful  sing 
For  the  manger  of  Bethlehem  cradles  a  King. 


248  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


There's  a  tumult  of  joy 

O'er  the  wonderful  birth, 
For  the  virgin's  sweet  boy- 
Is  the  Lord  of  the  earth. 
Aye !  the  star  reigns  its  fire  and  the  Beautiful  sing, 
For  the  manger  of  Bethlehem  cradles  a  King. 

In  the  light  of  that  star 

Lie  the  ages  impearled  ; 
And  that  song  from  afar 
Has  swept  over  the  world. 
Every  hearth  is  aflame,  and  the  Beautiful  sing 
In  the  homes  of  the  nations,  that  Jesus  is  King, 

We  rejoice  in  the  light, 

And  we  echo  the  song 
That  comes  down  through  the  night 
From  the  heavenly  throng. 
Aye !  we  shout  to  the  lovely  evangel  they  bring, 
And  we  greet  in  his  cradle  our  Saviour  and  King.'* 

4. 

PEACE  ON  EARTH.— GOOD  WILL  TO  MEN. 

"I  heard  the  bells  on  Christmas  day 
Their  old  familiar  carols  play ; 
And  wild  and  sweet  their  words  repeat 
Of  peace  on  earth,  good  will  to  men. 

And  thought,  how  as  the  day  had  come, 
The  belfries  of  all  Christendom, 
Had  roll'd  along  th'  unbroken  song 
Of  peace  on  earth,  good  will  to  men. 

*Till  ringing,  singing  on  the  way 
The  world  revolved  from  day  to  day, 
A  voice,  a  chime,  a  chant  sublime. 
Of  peace  on  earth,  good  will  to  men." 

Singing  :  "  Strike  your  harps,  ye  saints  in 
glory."    Royal  Diadem^  p.  83. 


THE  BIETH  OF  CHEIST.  249 


1. 

THE  VISIT  OF  THE  SHEPHERDS. 

And  it  came  to  pass  as  the  angels  were  gone  away  from  them 
i:jto  heaven,  the  shepherds  said  one  to  another,  Let  us  now  go 
even  unto  Bethlehem,  and  see  this  thing  which  is  come  to  pass, 
which  the  Lord  hath  made  known  unto  us. 

And  they  came  with  haste,  and  found  Mary,  and  Joseph,  and 
the  babe  lying  in  a  manger. — Luke  2  :  15,  16. 

2. 

And  when  they  had  seen  it,  they  made  known  abroad  the 
Baying  which  was  told  them  concerning  this  child. 

And  all  they  that  heard  it,  wondered  at  those  things  which 
were  told  them  by  the  shepherds. — Luke  2 :  17, 18. 

3. 

But  Mary  kept  all  these  things  and  pondered  them  in  her 
heart. 

And  the  shepherds  returned,  glorifying  and  praising  God  for 
all  the  things  that  they  had  heard  and  seen,  as  it  was  told  unto 
them.— Luke  2  :  19,  20. 

THE  OFFERING  OF  THE  WISE  MEN. 
1. 

Now  when  Jesus  was  born  in  Bethlehem  of  Judea  in  the  days 
of  Herod  the  King,  behold,  there  came  wise  men  from  the  east 
to  Jerusalem, 

Saying,  Where  is  he  that  is  born  King  of  the  Jews  ?  for  we 
have  seen  his  star  in  the  east,  and  are  come  to  worship  him. — 
Matt.  2 : 1,  2. 

2. 

A  beautiful  star  of  purest  light, 
On  Bethlehem  rose  divinely  fair ; 
And  over  the  infant  Saviour  smiled. 
While  angels  blessed  the  Holy  Child. 

That  wonderful  star  whose  beams  of  old, 
The  prophets  in  their  song  foretold, 
That  wonderful  star  that  came  to  earth, 
Bright  herald  of  the  Saviour's  birth. 


260  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


3. 

When  Herod  the  king  had  heard  these  things,  he  was  troubled, 
and  all  Jerusalem  with  him. 

And  when  he  had  gathered  all  the  chief  priests  and  scribes 
of  the  people  together,  he  demanded  of  them  where  Christ 
should  be  born.  —  Matt.  2  :  3,  4. 

4. 

And  they  said  unto  him.  In  Bethlehem  of  Judea :  for  thus  it 
is  written  by  the  prophet. 

And  thou  Bethlehem,  in  the  land  of  Judah,  art  not  the  least 
among  the  princes  of  Judah  :  for  out  of  thee  shall  come  a  Gov- 
ernor, that  shall  rule  my  people  Israel.  —  Matt.  2:  5,  6. 

5. 

Then  Herod,  when  he  had  privily  called  the  wise  men,  in- 
quired of  them  diligently  what  time  the  star  appeared. 

And  he  sent  them  to  Bethlehem,  and  said,  Go  and  search  dili- 
gently for  the  young  child ;  and  when  ye  have  found  him,  bring 
me  word  again,  that  I  may  come  and  worship  him  also.  —  Matt. 
2:  7,  8. 

6. 

When  they  had  heard  the  king,  they  departed ;  and  lo,  the 
star,  which  they  saw  in  the  east,  went  before  them,  till  it  came 
and  stood  over  where  the  young  child  was.  —  Matt.  2 :  9. 

7. 

Bright  was  the  guiding  star  that  led, 
With  mild  benignant  ray. 
The  Gentiles  to  the  lowly  shed, 
Where  the  Redeemer  lay. 

8. 

When  they  saw  the  star,  they  rejoiced  with  exceeding  great 
joy.— Matt.  2: 10. 


THE  BIRTH  OF  CHEIST,  251 
9. 

Brightest  and  best  of  the  sons  of  the  morning, 
Dawn  on  our  darkness,  and  lend  us  thine  aid; 

Star  of  the  east,  the  horizon  adorning, 
Guide  where  the  infant  Redeemer  is  laid. 

Cold,  on  his  cradle,  the  dew-drops  are  shining ; 

Low  lies  his  bed  with  the  beasts  of  the  stall ; 
Angels  adore  him,  in  slumber  reclining. 

Maker,  and  Monarch,  and  Saviour,  of  all. 

Say,  shall  we  yield  him,  in  costly  devotion, 

Odors  of  Eden  and  offerings  divine? 
Gems  of  the  mountain,  and  pearls  of  the  ocean, 

Myrrh  from  the  forest,  and  gold  from  the  mine? 

Vainh^  we  offer  each  ample  oblation ; 

Vainly  with  gifts  would  his  favor  secure ; 
Richer  bv  far  is  the  heart's  adoration ; 

Dearer  to  God  are  the  prayers  of  the  poor. 

10. 

And  when  they  were  come  into  the  house,  they  saw  the  young 
child  with  Mary  his  mother,  and  fell  down,  and  worshipped 
him ;  and  when  they  had  opened  their  treasures,  they  presented 
unto  him  gifts ;  gold,  and  frankincense,  and  myrrh. — ^Matt. 
2:  11 

11. 

Saw  you  never  in  the  twilight, 
When  the  sun  has  left  the  skies. 
Up  in  heaven  the  clear  stars  shining 
Thro*  the  gloom  like  silver  eyes  ? 
So  of  old  the  wise  men  watching 
Saw  a  little  stranger  star, 
And  they  knew  the  King  was  given, 
And  they  followed  it  from  far. 

12. 

Heard  you  never  of  the  story, 
How  they  crossed  the  desert  wild, 


252  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 

Journeyed  on  by  plain  and  mountain, 
Till  they  founi  the  Holy  Child  V 
How  they  opened  all  their  treasure 
Kneeling  to  that  infant  King, 
Gave  the  gold  and  fragrant  incense, 
Gave  the  myrrh  in  offering  ? 

THE  THREE  KINGS  OF  ORIENT. 

FOR  THREE  LITTLE  BOYS. 

"  We  three  kings  of  Orient  are ; 
Bearing  gifts  we  traverse  afar 
Field  and  fountain, 
Moor  and  mountain, 
Following  yonder  star.'* 

"  Born  a  king  on  Bethlehem's  plain, 
Gold  I  bring  to  crown  him  again  — 
King  for  ever, 
Ceasing  never 
Over  us  all  to  reign." 

"  Frankincense  to  offer  have  I: 
Incense  owns  a  Deity  nigh ; 
Prayer  and  praising 
All  men  raising, 
Worship  him,  God  on  high." 

"  Myrrh  is  mine :  its  bitter  perfume 
Breathes  a  life  of  gathering  gloom  — 
Sorrowing,  sighing, 
Bleeding,  dying. 
Sealed  in  the  stone  cold  tomb." 

All.  "  Glorious  now  behold  him  arise, 

King  and  God  and  Sacrifice ; 

Heaven  singing. 

Hallelujah ; 
Joyous  the  earth  replies. 

Singing:  ''Clap  your  hands  for  joy, 
people."    Royal  Diadem^  p.  116. 


1st.  Bay. 


2nd  Boy. 


3d  Boy. 


THE  BIETH  OF  CHRIST.  253 


Ques.  ly  SupL  What  name  was  given  this 
infant  Saviour  ? 

1. 

And  she  shall  bring  forth  a  son,  and  thou  shalt  call  his  name 
Jesus;  for  he  shall  save  his  people  from  their  sins.  —  Matt.  1: 
21. 

0  for  a  thousand  tongues  to  sing 

My  dear  Redeemer's  praise, — 
The  glories  of  my  God  and  King, 

The  triumphs  of  his  grace ! 

My  gracious  Master  and  my  God, 

Assist  me  to  proclaim, 
To  spread  through  all  the  earth  abroad, 

The  honors  of  thy  name. 

2. 

Dear  name !  the  rock  on  which  I  build, 

My  shield  and  hiding-place, 
M}'  never-failing  treasury,  filled 

With  boundless  stores  of  grace. 

By  thee  my  praj^ers  acceptance  gain, 

Although  with  sin  defiled ; 
Satan  accuses  me  in  vain, 

And  I  am  owned  a  child. 

3. 

Neither  is  there  salvation  in  any  other ;  for  there  is  none  other 
name  under  heaven  given  among  men,  whereby  we  can  be 
saved. — Acts.  4: 12. 

Jesus !  the  name  that  calms  our  fears, 

That  bids  our  sorrows  cease ; 
'Tis  music  in  the  sinner's  ears  ; 

'Tis  life,  and  health,  and  peace. 

He  breaks  the  power  of  reigning  sin ; 

He  sets  the  prisoner  free ; 
His  blood  can  make  the  foulest  clean ; 

His  blood  availed  for  me. 


254  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Wherefore  God  also  hath  exalted  him,  and  given  him  a  name 
"which  is  above  every  name.  — Phil.  2:  9. 

Jesus,  I  love  thy  charming  name  ; 

'Tis  music  to  my  ear; 
Fain  would  I  sound  it  out  so  loud 

That  earth  and  heaven  might  hear. 


Jesus!  delightful,  charming  name! 

It  spreads  a  fragrance  round : 
Justice  and  mercy,  truth  and  peace, 

In  union  here  are  found. 

He  is  our  life,  our  joy,  our  strength  ; 

In  him  all  glories  meet ; 
He  is  a  shade  above  our  heads, 

A  light  to  guide  our  feet. 

Through  every  age  he's  still  the  same; 

But  we  ungrateful  prove, 
Forget  the  savour  of  his  name, 

The  sweetness  of  his  love. 

6. 

That  at  the  name  of  Jesus  every  knee  should  bow,  of  things 
in  heaven,  and  things  in  earth,  and  things  under  the  earth ; 

And  that  every  tongue  should  confess  that  Jesus  Christ  la 
Lord,  to  the  glory  of  God  the  Father.  —  Phil.  2 :  10,  11. 

Jesus,  in  thj^  transporting  name 

What  glories  meet  our  eyes ! 
Thou  art  the  seraphs*  lofty  theme, 

The  wonder  of  the  skies. 

Well  might  the  heavens  with  wonder  view 

A  love  so  strange  as  thine  ; 
No  thought  of  angels  ever  knew 

Compassion  so  divine. 


THE  BIRTH  OF  CHEIST. 


7. 

How  sweet  the  name  of  Jesus  sounds, 
In  a  believer's  ear; 

It  soothes  his  sorrows,  heals  his  wounds 
And  drives  away  his  fear, 

It  makes  the  wounded  spirit  whole, 
And  calms  the  troubled  breast, 
'Tis  manna  to  the  hungry  soul, 
And  to  the  weary  rest. 

School  and  Congregation  sing: 

All  hail  the  power  of  Jesus  name ! 

Let  angels  prostrate  fall ; 
Bring  forth  the  royal  diadem, 

And  crown  him  Lord  of  all. 

Ye  chosen  seed  of  Israel's  race, — 
A  remnant  weak  and  small,— 

Hail  him,  who  saves  you  by  his  grace, 
And  crown  him  Lord  of  all. 


imp'  pw 


JESUS,  OUR  STAR. 

CHRISTMAS  EXERCISE. 


Directions.  —  Suspend  on  the  wall  a 
large  star  made  of  card-board,  and  covered 
with  gilt  paper,  care  being  taken  to  have 
some  small  hooks  placed  in  position  on  the 
star  upon  which  to  place  the  letters.  The 
letters  are  to  be  made  of  card-board,  and 

259 


260  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


covered  with  evergreen.  As  each  scholar 
recites,  let  him  place  his  letter  in  position  on 
the  star,  and  when  the  motto  is  completed, 
"  Jesus  Our  Star,"  will  shine  forth  with  its 
green  letters,  with  fine  effect. 

THE  EXERCISE. 

Singing. — ''Ring  out  Christmas  Bells." — 
River  of  Life^  p,  120. 

Alternate  Reading. — Matt.  2  :  1—10. 

Supt, — Now  when  Jesus  was  born  in  Beth- 
lehem of  Judea,  in  the  days  of  Herod  the 
king,  behold  there  came  wise  men  from  the 
East  to  Jerusalem. 

School, — Saying,  Where  is  he  that  is  born 
King  of  the  Jews  ?  for  we  have  seen  his  Star 
in  the  East,  and  are  come  to  worship  him. 

Supt. — When  Herod  the  king  had  heard 
these  things,  he  was  troubled,  and  all  Jeru- 
salem with  him. 

School. — And  when  he  had  gathered  all  the 
chief  Priests  and  Scribes  of  the  people  to- 
gether, he  demanded  of  them  where  Christ 
should  be  born. 

Supt. — And  they  said  unto  him.  In  Beth- 
lehem of  Judea ;  For  thus  it  is  written  by 
the  Prophet : 


JESUS.  OUR  STAR. 


261 


School. — And  thou  Bethlehem,  in  the  land 
of  Judah,  are  not  the  least  among  the  Prin- 
ces of  Judah :  for  out  of  thee  shall  come  a 
Governor,  that  shall  rule  my  people,  Israel. 

Supt. — Then  Herod,  when  he  had  privily 
called  the  wise  men,  inquired  of  them  dili- 
gently what  time  the  Star  appeared. 

School, — And  he  sent  them  to  Bethlehem, 
and  said,  Go,  and  search  diligently  for  the 
young  child,  and  when  ye  have  found  him, 
bring  me  word  again,  that  I  may  come  and 
worship  him  also. 

Supt. — When  they  had  heard  the  King, 
they  departed,  and  lo,  the  Star  which  they 
saw  in  the  East,  went  before  them,  till  it 
came  and  stood  over  where  the  young  child 
was. 

School. — When  they  saw  the  star,  they  re- 
joiced with  exceeding  great  joy. 

PRAYER. 

Singing:  "  Sweet  Carol."  Biver  of  Life^ 
p.  125. 

RECITATION. 

1st  Scholar. 

Brightest  and  best  of  the  sons  of  the  morning, 
Dawn  on  our  darkness,  and  lend  us  thine  aid ; 

Star  of  the  east,  the  horizon  adorning, 
Guide  where  the  infant  Redeemer  is  laid. 


262 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Cold,  on  his  cradle,  the  dew-drops  are  shining ; 

Low  lies  his  bed  with  the  beasts  of  the  stall ; 
Angels  adore  him,  in  slumber  reclining, 

Maker  and  Monarch  and  Saviour  of  all. 

Say,  shall  we  yield  him  in  costly  devotion, 

Odors  of  Eden  and  offerings  divine  ? 
Gems  of  the  mountain,  and  pearls  of  the  ocean, 

Myrrh  from  the  forest,  and  gold  from  the  mine  ? 

Vainly  we  offer  each  ample  oblation ; 

Vainly  with  gifts  would  his  favor  secure  ; 
Richer  by  far  is  the  heart's  adoration  ; 

Dearer  to  God  are  the  prayers  of  the  poor. 

J. 

2iid  Scholar.    The  birth  of  Christ  was  an- 
nounced with  Joy. 

And  the  angel  said  unto  them.  Fear  not ;  for,  behold  I  bring 
you  good  tidings  of  great  joy,  which  shall  be  to  all  people. — 
Luke  2 : 10. 

Joy  to  the  world !  the  Lord  is  come  I 

Let  earth  receive  her  King : 
Let  every  heart  prepare  him  rqom, 

And  heaven  and  nature  sing. 

E. 

3d  Scholar.    It  was  announced  with  Eager- 
ness. 

And  suddenly  there  was  with  the  angel  a  multitude  of  the 
heavenly  host. — Luke  2 : 13. 

Haste,  ye  mortals,  to  adore  him  ; 

Learn  his  name,  and  taste  his  joy ; 
Till  in  heaven  ye  sing  before  him, 

"  Glory  be  to  God  most  high  I  *' 


JESUS,  OUR  STAR. 


263 


s. 

4th  Scholar.    It  was  announced  with  Sing- 
ing. 

Praising  God,  and  saying, 

Glory  to  God  in  the  highest,  and  on  earth  peace,  good  will 
toward  men. — Luke  2  :  13,  14. 

Hark !  the  herald  angels  sing, 
"  Glory  to  the  new-born  King : 
Peace  on  earth,  and  mercy  mild ; 
God  and  sinners  reconciled." 

U. 

5th  Scholar.    It  was  announced  with  Uni- 
versal Rejoicing, 

And  the  shepherds  returned,  glorifying  and  praising  God  for 
all  the  things  that  they  had  heard  and  seen,  as  it  was  told  unto 
them.— Luke  2 :  20. 

*'  Glory  to  God !  *'  the  sounding  skies  . 

Aloud  with  anthems  ring  ; 
"  Peace  to  the  earth,  good-will  to  men, 

From  heaven's  eternal  King! '* 

S. 

6th  Scholar.    He  was  announced  as  a  Sa- 
viour. 

For  unto  you  is  born  this  day,  in  the  city  of  David,  a  Saviour, 
which  is  Christ  the  Lord. — Luke  2  :  11. 

In  worship  so  divine 

Let  men  employ  their  tongues  ; 
With  the  celestial  host  we  join. 
And  loud  repeat  their  songs : — 

"  Glory  to  God  on  high, 

And  heavenly  peace  on  earth : 
Good-will  to  men,  to  angels  joy, 
At  our  Redeemer's  birth." 


264 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Singing:  "Ring,  Merry  Bells."  Songs 
for  to-day^  p.  123. 

o. 

7th  Scholar.     The  birth  of  Christ  brought 
Obedience, 

Let  this  mind  be  in  you,  which  was  also  in  Christ  Jesus : 

Who  being  in  the  form  of  God,  thought  it  not  robbery  to  be 
equal  with  God : 

But  made  himself  of  no  reputation,  and  took  upon  him  the 
form  of  a  servant,  and  was  made  in  the  likeness  of  men. 

And  being  found  in  fashion  as  a  man,  he  humbled  himself 
and  became  obedient  unto  death,  even  the  death  of  the  cross. — 
Phil.  2 :  5—8. 

U. 

8th  Scholar.    The  birth  of  Christ  brought 
Unity. 

And  the  King  shall  answer,  and  say  unto  them.  Verily  I  say 
unto  you,  inasmuch  as  ye  have  done  it  unto  one  of  the  least 
of  these  my  brethren,  ye  have  done  it  unto  me. 

Then  shall  he  answer  them,  saying.  Verily  I  say  unto  you, 
inasmuch  as  ye  did  it  not  to  one  of  the  least  of  these,  ye  did  it 
not  to  me.— Matt.  25  ;  40,  45. 

R. 

9th  Scholar.    The  birth  of  Christ  brought 
Righteousness, 

For  he  hath  made  him  to  be  sin  for  us,  who  knew  no  sin,  that 
we  might  be  made  the  righteousness  of  God  in  him. — 2  Cor.  5 : 
21. 

S. 

10th  Scholar.    The  birth  of  Christ  brought 
Salvation. 


JESTTS,  OUE  STAB. 


265 


Though  he  were  a  Son,  yet  learned  he  obedience,  by  the 
things  which  he  suffered : 

And  being  made  perfect,  he  became  the  author  of  eternal 
salvation  unto  all  them  that  obey  him. — Heb.  5  :  8,  9. 

'Tis  the  long-expected  Saviour, 

David's  Son  and  David's  Lord, 
Sacrificed  to  bring  us  favor ; 
'Tis  a  true  and  faithful  word. 

T. 

11th  Scholar.    The  birth  of  Christ  brought 
Trust. 

And  such  trust  have  we  through  Christ  to  God-ward : — 2  Cor. 
3:4. 

"'Tis  Jesus,  the  first  and  the  last. 

Whose  Spirit  shall  guide  us  safe  home  ; 
We'll  praise  him  for  all  that  is  past, 
And  trust  him  for  all  that's  to  come. 

A. 

12th  Scholar.    The  birth  of  Christ  brought 
Atonement. 

Who  his  own  self  bare  our  sins  in  his  own  body  on  the  tree, 
that  we  being  dead  to  sins,  should  live  unto  righteousness,  by 
whose  stripes  ye  were  healed. — 1  Peter  2  :  24. 

But  thy  atoning  sacrifice 

Hath  answered  all  demands  ; 
And  peace  and  pardon  from  the  skies 

Are  blessings  from  thy  hands. 

R. 

13th  Scholar.    The  birth  of  Christ  brought 
Redemption. 


266  GATHEBED  SHEAVES. 


But  of  him  are  ye  in  Christ  Jesns,  who  of  God  is  made  unto 
us  wisdom,  and  righteousness,  and  sanctification,  and  redemp- 
tion: —1  Cor.  1 :  30. 

Now  to  the  Lord,  who  makes  us  know 

The  wonders  of  his  dying  love, 
Be  humble  honors  paid  belo^r, 

And  strains  of  nobler  praise  above. 

'Twas  he  who  cleansed  us  from  our  sins, 
And  washed  us  in  his  precious  blood ; 

Tis  he  who  makes  us  priests  and  kings. 
And  brings  us,  rebels  near  to  God. 

Singing  :  "  The  Bethlehem  Star."  Songs 
for  To  Day,  p.  120. 

14th  Scholar.  I  am  the  root  and  offspring 
of  David,  the  bright  and  morning  star« 
—Rev.  22 : 16. 

Is  he  a  star?  He  breaks  the  night, 
Piercing  the  shades  vnth.  dawning  light ; 
I  know  his  glories  from  afar, 
I  know  the  bright  and  morning  star. 

EECITATION. 


15th  Scholar. 

Bright  was  the  guiding  star,  that  led, 
With  mild,  benignant  ray, 

The  Gentiles  to  the  lowly  bed 
Where  our  Redeemer  lay. 

But,  lo !  a  brighter,  clearer  light 

Now  points  to  his  abode ; 
It  shines  through  sin  and  sorrow's  night, 

To  guide  us  to  our  Lord. 


JESUS,  OUR  STAB. 


267 


O,  haste  to  follow  where  it  leads  ; 
•  The  gracious  call  obey, 
Be  rugged  wilds,  or  flowery  meads, 
The  Christian's  destined  way, 

O,  gladly  tread  the  narrow  path, 

While  light  and  grace  are  given  ; 
Who  meekly  follow  Christ  on  earth 

Shall  reign  with  him  in  heaven. 

RECITATION. 

16tli  Scholar.  There  shall  come  a  Star  out 
of  Jacob,  and  a  Sceptre  shall  rise  out  of 
Israel. 

Morning  star  in  splendor  shining, 
Glad  we  hail  thee  on  thy  way ; 
While  we  shout  with  happy  voices, 
Christ  the  Lord  is  born  to-day. 

See  the  desert  robed  in  beauty, 
See  the  Rose  of  Sharon  bloom  ; 
While  the  Lily  of  the  Vallej^, 
Breathes  again  its  sweet  perfume. 

Loud  hosannas  hail  his  coming, 
Glory  crowns  his  humble  birth, 
Trumpet  tongues  report  the  story 
Peace,  good  will  to  all  on  earth. 

Son  of  David,  Prince  of  Glory, 
Born  to  set  thy  people  free ; 
Reign  forever,  King  eternal, 
All  the  world  is  blest  in  thee. 

School  and  Congregation  unite  in  singing: 

THE  STAR  OF  BETHLEHEM. 

When,  marshalled  on  the  nightly  plain, 

The  glittering  host  bestud  the  sky. 
One  star  alone,  of  all  the  train, 

Can  fix  the  sinner's  wandering  eye. 


268  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Hark !  hark !  to  God  the  chorus  breaks, 
From  every  host,  from  every  gem  ; 

But  one  alone  the  Saviour  speaks  — 
It  is  the  Star  of  Bethlehem ! 

It  was  my  guide,  my  light,  my  all ; 

It  bade  my  dark  forebodings  cease  ; 
And,  through  the  storm  and  danger's  thrall. 

It  led  me  to  the  port  of  peace. 

Kow,  safely  moored,  my  perils  o*er, 
I'll  sing,  first  in  night's  diadem, 

Forever  and  forevermore, 
The  Star  — the  Star  of  Bethlehem! 


CROSSING  THE  EIVER. 


Note.  —  While  this  Exercise  is  particu- 
larly adapted  for  "  Memorial  Observances," 
it  will  be  found  profitable  for  use  on  any  oc- 
casion. It  is  to  be  recited  in  the  usual  way, 
the  questions  being  asked  by  Supt.,  and  the 
answers  being  given  by  different  members 
of  the  school.  The  recitations  of  poetry 
should  be  assigned  to  those  members  of  the 
school  possessing  the  most  distinct  and  clear- 
est voices. 

THE  EXERCISE. 

Singing  ;  One  by  one,  we  cross  the 
River."    Silver  Spray^  p.  131. 

RECITATION. 

THE  RIVER  OF  DEATH. 

'Tis  the  river  of  death  rolling  here  at  my  feet, 
And  bej'ond  it  I  see  such  a  peaceful  retreat ; 
Such  a  beautiful  land  on  the  opposite  shore, 
Where  sorrow  and  weeping  shall  come  never  more. 
271 


272  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Jesus  stands  on  the  shore,  and  he  beckons  to  me, 
As  if  he  would  help  me  to  come  without  fear ; 
His  hand  is  outstretched  o'er  the  stream  to  take  mine, 
I  come,  precious  Saviour,  no  more  here  to  roam. 

Ques. — What  is  said  of  this  River  of  Death  ? 

Arts. — Deep  calleth  unto  deep  at  the  noise 
of  thy  water-spouts :  all  thy  waves  and  thy 
billows  are  gone  over  me.    Psa.  42:  7. 

For  thou  hadst  cast  me  into  the  deep,  in 
the  midst  of  the  seas :  and  the  floods  com- 
passed me  about:  all  thy  billows  and  thy 
waves  passed  over  me. 

The  waters  compassed  me  about  even  to 
the  soul ;  the  depth  closed  me  round  about, 
the  weeds  were  wrapped  about  my  head. — 
Jonah  2:3,5. 

Ques. — Must  all  cross  this  River  ? 

Am. — Thus  saith  the  Lord,  Set  thy  house 
in  order  :  for  thou  shalt  die  and  not  live. — 
Isa.  38 :  1. 

Knowing  that  shortly  I  must  put  off  this 
my  tabernacle,  even  as  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ 
hath  showed  me.    2  Peter,  1 :  14. 

Behold,  thou  hast  made  my  days  as  a 
hand-breadth ;  and  mine  age  is  as  nothing 
before  thee:  verily,  every  man  at  his  best 
state  is  altogether  vanity. — Psa.  39 :  5. 

For  we  know  that  if  our  earthly  house  of 


CROSSING  THE  RIYER.  273 


this  tabernacle  were  dissolved,  we  have  a 
building  of  God,  a  house  not  made  with 
hands,  eternal  in  the  heavens. — 2  Cor.  5  :  1. 

RECITATION. 

**  There  came  a  little  child  with  sunny  hair, 

All  fearless  to  the  brink  of  Death's  dark  river, 
And  with  a  sweet  confiding  in  the  care 

Of  Him  who  is  of  life  the  Joy  and  Giver ; 
And,  as  upon  the  waves  she  left  our  sight, 
We  heard  her  say,  '  My  Saviour  makes  them  bright.' 

Next  came  a  youth  with  bearing  most  serene. 
Nor  turned  a  single  backward  look  of  sadness; 

But,  as  he  left  each  gay  and  flowery  scene, 

Smiling  declared,  '  My  soul  is  thrilled  with  gladness! 

What  earth  deems  bright,  forever  I  resign. 

Joyful,  but  this  to  know,  that  Christ  is  mine.* 

An  aged  mourner,  trembling  tottered  by. 

And  paused  a  moment  by  the  swelling  river  ; 

Then  glided  on  beneath  the  shadowy  sky, 
Singing,  *  Christ  Jesus  is  m}^  strength  forever ! 

Upon  his  arm  my  feeble  soul  I  lean ; 

My  glance  meets  his  without  a  cloud  between.'* 

And  scarce  her  last  triumphant  note  had  died, 
Ere  hastened  on  a  man  of  wealth  and  learning, 

Who  cast  at  once  his  bright  renown  aside, 

These  only  words  unto  his  friends  returning ; 
*  Christ  for  my  wisdom  thankfully  I  own, 

And,  "  as  a  little  child ' '  I  seek  his  throne.* 

Then  saw  I  this :  that  whether  guileless  child, 

Or  youth,  or  age,  or  genius  won  salvation. 
Each  self -renouncing  came  ;  on  each  God  smiled  : 

Each  found  the  love  of  Christ  rich  compensation 
For  loss  of  friends,  earth's  pleasures  and  renown; 
Each  entered  heaven,  and  by  His  side  sat  down." 


274  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Singing:  ''Waiting,  only  Waiting."  Sil- 
ver Spray^  p.  88. 

Qne^. — How  are  the  waters  of  the  River 
of  Death  described  ? 

Am. — God  is  our  refuge  and  strength,  a 
very  present  help  in  trouble. 

Therefore  will  not  we  fear,  though  the 
earth  be  removed,  and  though  the  mountains 
be  carried  into  the  midst  of  the  sea  ; 

Though  the  waters  thereof  roar  and  be 
troubled,  though  the  mountains  shake  with 
the  swelling  thereof. — Psa.  46  :  1,  2,  3. 

Then  they  had  swallowed  us  up  quick, 
when  their  wrath  was  kindled  against  us  : 

Then  the  waters  had  overwhelmed  us,  the 
stream  had  gone  over  our  soul : 

Then  the  proud  waters  had  gone  over  our 
soul.— Psa.  124 :  3,  4,  5. 

RECITATION. 

OVER  THE  RIVER. 

"  Over  the  river  they  beckon  to  me  — 

Loved  ones  who  have  crossed  to  the  farther  side ; 
The  gleam  of  their  snowy  robes  I  see, 

But  their  voices  are  drowned  by  the  dashing  tide. 

And  none  return  from  those  quiet  shores, 
Who  cross  with  the  boatman  pale  and  cold  ; 

We  hear  the  dip  of  the  golden  oars. 
And  catch  a  gleam  of  the  snowy  sail. 

And  lo !  they  have  passed  from  the  yearning  heart, 
They  cross  the  stream,  and  are  gone  for  aye 


CROSSING  THE  KIVER.  275 


We  may  not  sunder  the  veil  impart 

That  hides  from  our  vision  the  gates  of  day ; 

We  only  know  that  their  barques  no  more 
May  sail  with  ours  o'er  life's  stormy  sea ; 

Yet  somewhere  I  know  on  the  unseen  shore, 
They  watch,  and  beckon,  and  wait  for  me. 

And  I  sit  and  think  when  the  sunset's  gold 

Is  flushing  river,  and  hill,  and  shore, 
I  shall  one  day  stand  by  the  water  cold, 

And  list  for  the  sound  of  the  boatman's  oar. 
I  shall  watch  for  a  gleam  of  the  flapping  sail; 

I  shall  hear  the  boat  as  it  gains  the  strand ; 

I  shall  pass  from  sight  with  the  boatman  pale 

To  the  better  shores  of  the  spirit  land. 
I  shall  know  the  loved  ones  who  have  gone  before, 

And  joyfully  sweet  will  the  meeting  be, 
When  over  the  river,  the  peaceful  river, 

The  angel  Death  shall  carry  me." 

Ques. — Who  sustains  the  Christian  as  he 
crosses  this  River  ? 

Ans.  —  When  thou  passest  through  the 
waters,  I  will  be  with  thee  ;  and  through  the 
rivers,  they  shall  not  overflow  thee  ;  when 
thou  walkest  through  the  fire,  thou  shalt  not 
be  burned ;  neither  shall  the  flame  kindle 
upon  thee  : 

For  I  am  the  Lord  thy  God,  the  Holy  One 
of  Israel,  thy  Saviour. — Isa.  42  :  2,  3. 

Save  me,  O  God,  for  the  waters  are  come 
in  unto  my  soul. 

I  sink  in  deep  mire,  where  there  is  no 
standing:   I  am  come  into   deep  waters, 


276  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


where  the  floods  overflow  me.  —  Psa.  69  : 
1,  2. 

And  he  brought  me  through  the  waters. — 
Ezek.  47  :  3. 

The  Lord  is  my  Shepherd:  I  shall  not 
want ; 

He  maketh  me  to  lie  down  in  green  pas- 
tures :  he  leadeth  me  beside  the  still  waters. 

He  restoreth  my  soul ;  he  leadeth  me  in 
the  paths  of  righteousness  for  his  name's 
sake. 

Yea,  though  I  walk  through  the  valley  of 
the  shadow  of  death,  I  will  fear  no  evil  •  for 
thou  art  with  me ;  thy  rod  and  thy  staff  they 
comfort  me. — Psa.  23  :  1,  2,  3,  4. 

RECITATION, 

LOOK  BEYOND. 

"  Departing  soul,  the  flood  awaits  thee, 
And  the  billows  round  thee  roar ; 
Yet  look  on  the  crystal  city 
Stands  on  yon  celestial  shore. 
There  are  crowns  and  thrones  of^  glory, 
There  the  living  waters  glide, 
There  the  just  in  shining  raiment, 
Wander  by  Immanuel  side. 

Linger  not  the  stream  is  narrow, 
Though  its  cold  dark  waters  rise ; 
He  who  passed  the  flood  before  thee 
Guides  thy  path  to  yonder  skies. 
Hark,  the  sound  of  angels  humming, 


CEOSSING  THE  ElVEK. 


277 


Rolls  harmonious  o'er  thine  ear, 
Let  the  walls  and  golden  portals 
Through  the  mists  of  death  appear.'* 

Singing  :  "  We  are  waiting  by  the  River.'' 
Silver  Sjpray^  p»  34. 

Que^.  How  does  Bunyan  tell  us,  in  Pil- 
grim's Progress,  that  Christian  crossed  the 
river  ? 

Am.  And  I  saw  in  my  dream,  that  be- 
twixt them  and  the  gate  was  a  river ;  bat 
there  was  no  bridge  to  go  over  ;  and  the  riv- 
er was  very  deep.  At  the  sight  thereof  of 
this  river  the  pilgrims  were  much  stunned: 
but  the  men  that  went  wdth  them  said,  You 
must  go  through,  or  you  cannot  come  at  the 
gate.  Then  they  asked  the  men  if  the 
waters  were  all  of  a  depth.  They  said,  No ; 
you  shall  find  it  deeper  or  shallower  as  you 
believe  in  the  King  of  the  place.  They  then 
adressed  themselves  to  the  w^aters,  and  en- 
tering. Christian  began  to  sink,  and  cried 
out  to  his  friend,  I  sink  in  deep  waters. 
Then  said  the  other.  Be  of  good  cheer,  my 
brother;  I  feel  the  bottom  and  it  is  good. 
And  I  saw  that  they  both  took  courage,  and 
presently  found  good  ground  to  stand  upon, 
and  so  it  followed  that  the  rest  of  the  river 


278  GATHEBED  SHEAVES, 


was  but  shallow.  Thus  they  got  over,  wd 
I  saw  that  two  shining  ones  met  them. 

RECITATION. 

CHRISTIAN'S  SOLILOQUY. 

"  River  of  Death,  thy  stream  I  see, 
Between  the  bright  city  of  rest  and  me  ; 
Fearless  thy  sable  surge  I'll  brave, 
For  sweet  is  the  prospect  be^^ond  the  grave. 
Waft  me,  oh,  waft  me  safel}^  o'er. 
And  land  me,  dear  Saviour,  on  Canaan's  shore. 

Why  should  I  fear  to  stem  the  tide. 

With  him  who  has  loved  me  as  guard  and  guide, 

Wisdom  and  power  control  thy  flood, 

While  faith  says  my  passage  was  paid  with  blood. 

What  is  it  gilds  thy  darksome  foam  ? 

'Tis  the  light  shinnig  forth  from  my  happy  home  ; 

Music  that  thrills  my  soul  to  hear. 

Seems  floating  me  over  thy  surface  drear. 

Help  me,  I  feel  the  waters  rise. 

Yet  visions  of  glory  still  glad  my  eyes. 

Saviour,  I  come,  I  soon  shall  be 

Among  the  saints  ransomed  by  Calvary. 

Waft  me,  oh,  waft  me  safely  home. 

And  land  me,  dear  Saviour,  on  Canaan's  shore." 

Ques. — How  did  Christiana  cross  ? 

Ans. — Now  the  day  drew  on  that  Christi- 
ana must  be  gone.  So  the  road  was  full  of 
people  to  see  her  take  her  journey.  But  be- 
hold, all  the  banks  beyond  the  river  were 
full  of  horses  and  chariots,  which  were  come 
down  from  above  to  accompany  her  to  the 


CEOSSING  THE  EIYER.  279 


city  gate.  So  she  came  forth  and  entered 
the  river,  with  a  beckon  of  farewell  to  those 
that  followed  her.  The  last  words  that  she 
was  heard  to  say,  were,  I  come,  Lord,  to  be 
with  thee,  and  to  bless  thee.  So  she  went, 
and  called,  and  entered  in  at  the  gate  with 
all  the  ceremonies  of  joy  that  her  husband, 
Christian,  had  entered  with  before  her 

RECITATION. 

WHEN  WE  GO  UP  FROM  JORDAN. 

"  When  we  go  up  from  Jordan, 
And  reach  the  shining  shore, 
Our  trials  then  will  all  be  past, 
Our  cares  and  sorrows  o'er. 
Across  Death's  stormy  river, 
We  ne'er  shall  pass  again, 
But  with  our  God  forevermore, 
In  endless  glory  reign. 

When  we  go  up  from  Jordan, 
What  beams  of  heavenly  light, 
What  scenes  of  perfect  holiness, 
Will  greet  our  raptured  sight. 
How  then  w.e'U  bless  the  wisdom 
That  planned  the  narrow  way 
Wherein  the  pilgrim's  feet  might  tread, 
And  never  go  astray. 

When  we  go  up  from  Jordan, 
And  press  the  emerald  banks, 
The  angels  there  will  welcome  us, 
In  bright  and  shining  ranks. 
We'll  change  our  earthly- garments 
To  robes  the  ransomed  wear, 
Our  crosses  for  immortal  crowns ; 
O,  when  shall  we  get  there." 


280 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Singing  :  We  shall  meet  beyond  the 
river."     Winnowed  Hymns^  p.  23. 

RECITATION. 

"  And  often  I  sit  at  the  casement  alone, 

And  I  list,  if  perchance  I  may  hear, 
The  flutter  of  sails,  and  the  rushing  of  waves, 

And  the  dash  of  a  gilded  oar, 
As  the  boatman  starts  from  his  emerald  caves 

To  carry  me  down  to  the  shore  — 
And  I  wait  for  the  swoop  of  an  angel  wing. 

And  a  clasp  of  an  angel  hand. 
For  the  sound  of  a  harp,  or  the  chant  of  a  hymn, 

And  the  light  of  the  glory  band. 

But  alas !  I  listen  and  wait  in  vain  ; 

Yet  I  know  that  my  weary  feet 
Shall  wander  ere  long  from  the  valley  of  pain 

To  the  river  so  solemn  and  sweet. 
I  shall  go  with  the  boatman,  changeless  and  pale. 

And  each  woe  that  my  heart  has  known, 
Each  agonized  cry,  each  desolate  wail. 

Each  fearful  and  piteous  moan. 
Shall  be  swept  away  by  the  murmurous  waves, 

From  my  spirit  so  joyous  and  free, 
When  I  see  the  smiles  of  the  lovely  who  wait 

On  the  beautiful  shore  for  me.'* 

Ques. — What  are  the  feelings  of  the  Chris- 
tian as  he  crosses  the  dark  river  ? 

Ans. — For  I  am  now  ready  to  be  offered, 
and  the  time  of  my  departure  is  at  hand. 

I  have  fought  a  good  fight,  I  have  finished 
my  course,  I  have  kept  the  faith. 

Henceforth  there  is  laid  up  for  me  a  crown 
of  righteousness,  which  the  Lord,,  the  right- 


CROSSIKG  THE  RIYER.  281 


eous  judge,  shall  give  me  at  that  day ;  and 
not  to  me  only,  but  unto  all  them  also  that 
love  his  appearing. — 2  Tim.,  4:  6,  7,  8. 

"  And  we  only  know,  when  we  hear  no  more, 

As  we  watch  for  the  parting  breath, 
That  an  angel  is  tenderly  lifting  them  down 

The  banks  of  the  river  of  death  — 
Only  know  that  their  footsteps  are  pressing  the  sands 

That  are  washed  by  the  hurrying  waves. 
And  that  over  the  billows  outstretched  are  their  hands, 

To  the  shore  that  their  brightnees  laves." 

Ques. — What  will  he  find  on  the  other 
side? 

Ans. — And  he  carried  me  away  in  the 
spirit  to  a  great  and  high  mountain,  and 
showed  me  that  great  city,  the  Holy  Jerusa- 
lem, descending  out  of  heaven  from  God. 

Having  the  glory  of  God  ;  and  her  light 
was  like  unto  a  stone  most  precious,  even 
like  a  jasper  stone,  clear  as  crystal. — Rev. 
21 :  10,  11. 

O  the  transporting,  rapturous  scene, 

That  rises  to  my  sight !  — 
Sweet  fields,  arrayed  In  living  green. 

And  rivers  of  delight. 

O'er  all  those  wide-extended  plains 

Shines  one  eternal  day  ; 
There  God  the  Son  forever  reigns, 

And  scatters  night  away. 

No  chilling  winds,  nor  poisonous  breath, 

Can  reach  that  healthful  shore  : 
Sickness  and  sorrow,  pain  and  death, 

Are  felt  and  feared  no  more. 


282 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Ques.    Who  will  welcome  him  there  ? 

Ans.  Being  made  so  much  better  than 
the  angels,  as  he  hath  by  inheritance  ob- 
tained a  more  excellent  name  than  they.  — 
Heb.  1:4. 

"  They  are  waitinj?  for  the  coming, 
Angels  on  the  other  shore, 
Waiting  to  receive  the  ransomed 
When  the  storms  of  life  are  o'er. 
Watching  at  the  shining  portals 
Of  our  Father's  mansion  fair, 
They  will  strike  their  harps  of  glory, 
They  will  bid  us  welcome  there. 

In  the  sunny  vales  of  Eden, 
By  the  river,  clear  and  bright, 
Where  the  tree  of  life  is  planted, 
And  our  faith  is  lost  in  sight. 
We  shall  join  the  church  triumphant, 
Free  from  sorrow,  toil  and  care, 
Ever}^  tie  again  united 
There  will  be  no  parting  there. 

School  and  Congregation  unite  in  Singing. 

Shall  we  gather  at  the  river. 
Where  bright  angel  feet  have  trod : 

With  its  crystal  tide  forever 
Flowing  by  the  throne  of  God? 

Chorus  —  Yes  ;  we'll  gather  at  the  river, 

The  beautiful,  the  beautiful  river, 
Gather  with  the  saints  at  the  river 
That  flows  by  the  throne  of  God. 

Ere  we  reach  the  shining  river, 
Lay  we  every  burden  down  ; 
Grace  our  spirits  will  deliver. 
And  provide  a  robe  and  crown. 
Choeus  —  Yes ;  we'll  gather  at  the  river,  etc 


¥l\e  G^olden  City. 


THE  GOLDEN  CITY. 


Note.  This  exercise  can  be  used  for  reci- 
tation by  classes  if  desired,  additional  refer- 
ences being  found  by  use  of  a  Concordance 
or  Manual.  The  Superintendent  is  to  ask 
the  questions^  and  the  answers  are  given  by 
different  scholars  or  classes. 

THE  EXERCISE. 

Singing  :  Beautiful  Eden."  Pure  Groldj 
p.  82. 

PRAYER. 

Singing  :  The  Bright  Forever."  Pure 
Gold,  p.  108. 


RECITATION. 

285 


286  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


THE  GOLDEN  CITY. 

Not  far  awar  does  this  golden  city  stand, 

*Tis  but  the  mist  over  its  dividing  stream 
That  wraps  the  glory  of  its  glittering  strand, 

Its  radiant  skies,  and  mountains*  silvery  gleams. 
Oh,  often  in  the  blindness  of  our  fate, 
We  wander  very  near  the  city's  golden  gate. 

We  love  that  unseen  city  ;  and  we  yearn 

Ever  within  our  earthly  homes  to  see 
Its  golden  towers,  that  in  the  sunlight  burns. 

Its  white  walls,  rising  from  the  quiet  sea ; 
Its  mansions  glittering  with  immortal  show, 
Filled  with  the  treasure  lost  to  us  below. 

Oh,  dear  to  us  that  city !    He  is  there. 

He  whom  unseen  we  love.   No  need  of  light, 
His  tender  eyes  illume  the  crystal  air, 

Where  his  beloved  walk  in  vesture  white. 
What  though  on  earth  they  wandered ;  poor,  distressed, 
And  saw  through  tears  his  glory  ?  now  they  rest. 

Oh !  that  fair  cit}' !  shining  o'er  the  tide ; 

Thither  we  journey,  through  the  storm  and  night. 
But  soon  shall  we  adown  its  still  bay  glide ; 

Soon  will  the  city's  gate  gleam  on  our  sight; 
Then  with  our  own  forever  shall  we  be, 
In  that  Golden  City  rising  from  the  sea. 

Ques.    Where  is  this  Golden  City  ? 

Ans.  Howbeit,  the  Most  High  dwelleth 
not  in  temples  made  with  hands:  as  saith 
the  prophet. 

Heaven  is  my  throne,  and  earth  is  my 
footstool:  what  house  will  ye  build  me? 
saith  the  Lord ;  or  what  is  the  place  of  my 
rest  ? 


THE  GOLDEN  CITY. 


287 


Hath  not  my  hand  made  all  these  things  ? 
—Acts  7:  48,  49,  60.  Also,  Psa.  103:  11 ; 
Psa.  115 :  16  ;  Isa.  66  :  1. 

Ques,  How  has  this  Beautiful  City  been 
described  ? 

Ans.  And  had  a  wall  great  and  high, 
and  had  twelve  gates,  and  at  the  gates  twelve 
angels,  and  names  written  thereon,  which 
are  the  names  of  the  twelve  tribes  of  the 
children  of  Israel. 

On  the  east  three  gates,  on  the  north  three 
gates,  on  the  south  three  gates,  and  on  the 
west  three  gates. 

And  the  wall  of  the  city  had  twelve  found- 
ations, and  in  them  the  names  of  the  twelve 
apostles  of  the  Lamb. 

And  he  that  talked  with  me,  had  a  golden 
reed  to  measure  the  city,  and  the  gates 
thereof,  and  the  wall  thereof. 

And  the  city  lieth  four  square,  and  the 
length  is  as  large  as  the  breadth ;  and  he 
measured  the  city  with  the  reed,  twelve 
thousand  furlongs  :  the  length  and  the 
breadth,  and  the  height  of  it  are  equal. 

And  he  measured  the  wall  thereof,  a  hun- 
dred, and  forty,  and  four  cubits,  according 
to  the  measure  of  a  man,  that  is,  of  tlie 
anveL 


28S 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


And  the  building  of  the  wall  of  it  was  of 
jasper,  and  the  city  was  pure  gold,  like  unto 
clear  glass. 

And  the  foundations  of  the  wall  of  the 
city  were  garnished  with  all  manner  of 
precious  stones.  The  first  foundation  was 
jasper,  the  second  sapphire,  the  third  a  chal- 
cedony, the  fourth  an  emerald. 

The  fifth  sardonyx,  the  sixth  sardius,  the 
seventh  chrysolite,  the  eighth  beryl,  the 
ninth  a  topaz,  the  tenth  a  chrysoprasus,  the 
eleventh  a  jacinth,  the  twelfth  an  amethyst. 

And  the  twelve  gates  were  twelve  pearls, 
every  several  gate  was  of  one  pearl,  and  the 
street  of  the  city  was  pure  gold,  as  it  were 
transparent  glass.— Rev.  21 :  12 — 21. 

RECITATION. 

BEAUTIFUL  THINGS  ABOVE. 

"  There's  a  beautiful  river  above, 

Which  flows  from  the  midst  of  the  throne, 
Whose  surface  no  tempests  disturb, 
Unruffled  it  sweetly  flows  on. 

There' s  a  beautiful  city  above, 
With  walls  decked  with  jewels  so  rare, 

With  streets  of  pure,  bright  shining  gold, 
With  which  nothing  on  earth  can  compare. 

There  are  beautiful  mansions  above, 

Prepared  by  the  Saviour  for  those 
Who  look  for  salvation  to  him 

And  on  himself  repose.  ' 


THE  GOLDEN  CITY. 


289 


There's  a  beautiful  anthem  above, 

Which  the  glorified  ever  shall  sing, 
Whose  notes  as  they  swell  through  the  heavens. 
Sweet  praise  to  the  Saviour  shall  bring. 

There  are  beautiful  angeh  above, 

Surrounding  the  throne  of  the  Lamb, 

Whose  service  —  blest  service  — -  it  is 
To  worship  unceasing  his  name. 

And  all  these  bright,  beautiful  things. 
And  more  than  the  heart  can  conceive, 

Are  offered  by  God  in  his  love. 
To  all  who  on  Jesus  believe." 


Singing  :  Beautiful  Land  of  Song." 
Pure  G-old^  p.  64. 

MOTTO  EXERCISE. 


Note.  Place  upon  the  wall  behind  the 
Superintendent's  desk,  or  in  some  prominent 
position,  the  motto,  "  the  golden  city  ouii 
HOME,"  arranged  in  the  manner  given  in  the 
diagram.  Cover  the  letters  OJjii  home" 
with  paper  or  cloth,  leaving  the  others  ex- 
posed to  view.  As  the  different  descrip- 
tions of  ^'  THE  golden  CITY  "  are  recited, 
remove  the  coverings  of  the  letters,  and 


OUR  HOME. 


290 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


when  all  are  given,  the  full  motto  will  be 
revealed ;  the  motto  may  be  placed  upon  a 
screen  prepared  especially  for  the  occasion, 
or  the  blackboard  may  be  used,  the  letters 
being  written  upon  it  as  the  exercise  is  re- 
cited. 

Ques.  We  have  had  a  Scriptural  descrip- 
tion of  The  Golden  City ; "  how  do  the 
poets  describe  it  ? 

o. 

1st  Scholar.    As  our  Father  s  Spouse. 

There  is  a  house  not  made  with  hands, 

Eternal,  and  on  high  ; 
And  here  my  spirit  waiting  stands 

Till  God  shall  bid  it  fly. 

Shortly  this  prison  of  my  clay 

Must  be  dissolved  and  fall ; 
Then,  O  my  soul,  with  joy  obey 

Thy  heavenly  Father* s  call. 

(Removes  covering  from  0.) 

2nd  Scholar.    As  Unfading. 

The  evening  cloud,  the  morning  dew, 
The  withering  grass,  the  fading  flower, 

Of  earthly  hopes  are  emblems  true  — 
The  glory  of  a  passing  hour. 

But  though  earth's  fairest  blossoms  die, 

And  all  beneath  the  skies  is  vain, 
There  is  a  brighter  world  on  high, 

Beyond  the  reach  of  care  and  pain. 

(Removes  covering  from  U.) 


THE  GOLDEN  CITY. 


291 


R. 

of  where  shall  rest  be  found  — 

Rest  for  the  wear}"-  soul  ? 
*Twere  vain  the  ocean  depths  to  sound, 

Or  pierce  to  either  pole. 

Beyond  this  vale  of  tears, 

There  is  a  life  above, 
Unmeasured  by  the  flight  of  years ; 

And  all  that  life  is  love. 

(Removes  covering  from  R.) 

H. 

4iih  Scholar.    As  Holy. 

Nor  eye  hath  seen,  nor  ear  hath  heard, 

Nor  sense  nor  reason  known. 
What  joys  the  Father  has  prepared 

For  those  that  love  his  Son. 

Pure  are  the  joys  above  the  sky, 
»  And  all  the  region  peace  ; 

No  wanton  lips,  nor  envious  eye, 
Can  see  or  taste  the  bliss. 

(Removes  covering  f:  om  H).) 

O. 

bih  Scholar.    As  Our  Hope. 

Let  cares,  like  a  wild  deluge,  come, 

And  storms  of  sorrow  fall ! 
Ma}^  I  but  safely  reach  my  home, 

My  God,  my  heaven,  my  all. 

There  shall  I  bathe  my  weary  soul 

In  seas  of  heavenly  rest, 
And  not  a  wave  of  trouble  roll 

Across  my  peaceful  breast. 

(Removes  covering  from  O.) 


292  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


n. 

Qth  Scholar.    As  Many  Mansions. 

Short  is  the  passage,  short  the  space, 

Between  my  home  and  me ; 
There,  there  behold  the  radiant  place ! 

How  near  the  mansions  be? 

Immortal  wonders !  boundless  things 

In  those  dear  worlds  appear  ; 
Prepare  me.  Lord,  to  stretch  my  wings, 

And  in  those  glories  share. 

(Removes  covering  from  M.) 

E. 

^th  Scholar.    As  Everlasting. 

We  there  shall  ever  sing  and  tell 

The  wonders  of  his  grace. 
While  heavenly  raptures  tire  our  hearts. 

And  smile  in  every  face. 

Forever  his  dear,  sacred  name 

Shall  dwell  upon  our  tongue, 
And  Jesus  and  salvation  be 

The  close  of  every  song. 

(Removes  covering  from  £.) 

Scholar.    Our  Home. 

My  Father's  house  on  high ! 

Home  of  my  soul !  how  near. 
At  times,  to  faith's  foreseeing  eye 

Thy  golden  gates  appear ! 

I  hear  at  morn  and  even, 
At  noon  and  midnight  hour, 

The  choral  harmonies  of  heaven 
Seraphic  music  pour. 


THE  GOLDEN  CITY. 


293 


0,  then  my  spirit  faints 

To  reach  the  land  I  love  — 
The  bright  inheritance  of  sair.  ts, 

M}^  glorious  home  above. 

Singing  :  "  Happy  Home."  Pure  Gold^ 
.  24. 

RECITATION. 

THE  LAND  OF  THE  SOUL. 

Far,  far  away  o'er  the  sea  of  Time 

There  lieth  a  Land  of  the  Soul ; 
And  flowers  of  rare  beauty  bloom  in  that  clime, 
And  its  rivers  sweep  by  with  a  musical  cLime ; 

And  the  love  of  the  daj^s  of  old, 
That  gladdened  my  life  in  its  summer-time, 

Rests  there  in  the  Land  of  the  Soul  — 

The  beautiful  Land  of  the  Soul. 

And  ofttimes  when  faint  and  with  dark  fears  oppressed 

I  long  for  the  Land  of  the  Soul  ; 
Where  earth's  weary  pilgrims  enjoy  sweet  rest, 
And  grief,  sin,  nor  sorrow  can  never  molest ; 

And  I  think  of  its  pleasures  untold. 
That  shall  render  my  life  for  evermore  blest, 

In  the  beautiful  Land  of  the  Soul  — 

The  glorious  Land  of  the  Soul. 

And  many  and  dear  are  the  friends  I  shall  meet 

In  the  far  bright  Land  of  the  Soul ; 
And  with  kisses  and  smiles  my  loved  ones  I'll  greet, 
And  happil}'  I'll  roam  through  the  heavenly  streets  — 

The  streets  that  are  paved  with  gold ; 
And  fondly  I'll  rest  at  the  Master's  feet. 

Who  reigneth  o'er  all  in  the  Land  of  the  Soul  — 

The  immortal  Land  of  the  Soul. 

Ques. — What  is  said  of  its  glory  ? 

Ans. — And  I  saw  no  temple  therein;  lor 


294  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


the  Lord  God  Almiglity  and  the  Lamb  are 
the  temple  of  it. 

And  the  city  had  no  need  of  the  sun, 
neither  of  the  moon  to  shine  in  it ;  for  the 
gloTj  of  God  did  lighten  it,  and  the  Lamb  is 
the  light  thereof. 

And  the  nations  of  them  which  are  saved, 
shall  walk  in  the  light  of  it :  and  the  kings 
of  the  eartli  do  bring  their  glory  and  honor 
into  it. 

And  the  gates  of  it  shall  not  be  shut  at 
all  by  day ;  for  there  shall  be  no  niglit  there. 

And  they  shall  bring  the  glory  and  honor 
of  the  nations  into  it. 

And  there  shall  in  no  wise  enter  into  it 
any  tiling  that  defileth,  neither  whatsoever 
worketh  abomination,  or  maketh  a  lie :  but 
they  which  are  w^ritten  in  the  Lamb's  book 
of  life.— Rev.  21  :  22-27. 

Ques. — Who  are  the  inhabitants  ? 

Ans.    Little  Children. — Mark  10  :  13—16. 

And  they  brought  j^oung  children  to  him,  that  he  should 
touch  them,  and  his  disciples  rebidved  those  that  brought  them. 

But  when  Jesus  saw  it,  he  was  much  displeased,  and  said 
unto  them,  Suffer  the  little  children  to  come  unto  me,  and  for- 
bid them  not;  for  of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  God. 

Veirly  I  say  unto  you.  Whosoever  shall  not  receive  the  king- 
dom of  God  as  a  little  child,  he  shall  not  enter  therein. 

And  he  took  them  up  in  his  arms,  put  his  hands  upon  them, 
and  blessed  them. 


THE  GOLDEN  CITY. 


295 


Christ's  folloivers, — John  14:  1 — 3. 

Let  not  your  heart  be  troubled ;  ye  believe  in  God,  believe 
also  in  me. 

In  my  Father's  house  are  many  mansions  ;  if  it  were  not  so  I 
would  have  told  you.    I      to  prepare  a  place  for  yo\x. 

And  if  I  go  and  prepare  a  place  for  you,  I  will  come  again, 
and  leceive  you  unto  myself ;  that  where  I  am,  there  ye  may  be 
also. 

Those  that  seek  (?^>J.— Matt.  6  :  33. 

But  seek  ye  first  the  kingdom  of  God,  and  his  righteousness ; 
and  all  those  things  shall  be  added  unto  you. 

Blessed  of  God.— M-Ati.  25  :  34—36. 

Then  shall  the  King  say  unto  them  on  his  right  hand.  Come, 
ye  blessed  of  my  Father,  inherit  the  kingdom  prepared  for  you 
from  the  foundation  of  the  world : 

For  I  was  a  hungered,  and  ye  gave  me  meat ;  I  was  thirsty, 
and  jQ,  gave  me  drink ;  1  was  a  stranger,  and  ye  took  me  in : 

Naked,  and  ye  clothed  me  :  I  was  sick,  and  ye  visited  me :  I 
was  in  prison,  and  ye  came  unto  me. 

Those  that  love  God.—l  Cor.  2 :  9. 

But  as  it  is  written.  Eye  hath  not  seen,  nor  ear  heard,  neither 
have  entered  into  the  heart  of  man,  the  things  which  God  hath 
prepared  for  them  that  love  him. 

Ques. — What  will  be  the  occupation  of  the 
redeemed  in  Heaven  ? 

Ans. — And  I  beheld,  and  I  heard  the  voice 
of  many  angels  round  about  the  throne,  and 
the  living-creatures  and  the  elders ;  and  the 
number  of  them  was  ten  thousand  times  ten 
thousand,  and  thousands  of  thousands  : 


296  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Saying  with  a  loud  voice,  Worthy  is  the 
Lamb  that  was  slain  to  receive  power,  and 
riches,  and  wisdom,  and  strength,  and  honor 
and  glory,  and  blessing. 

And  every  creature  which  is  in  heaven, 
and  on  the  earth,  and  under  the  earth,  and 
such  as  are  in  the  sea,  and  all  that  are  in 
them,  heard  I  saying.  Blessing,  and  honor, 
and  glory,  and  power,  be  unto  Him  that  sit- 
teth  upon  the  throne,  and  unto  the  Lamb 
for  ever  and  ever. 

And  the  four  living-creatures  said.  Amen. 
And  the  four  and  twenty  elders  fell  down 
and  worshipped  him  that  liveth  for  ever  and 
ever. — Rev.  5 :  11-14. 

"  They  tell  us  there* s  a  city  bright, 

Above  the  starry  sky, 
And  not  a  soul  that  dwells  therein, 

Was  ever  known  to  cry. 
And  there  they  say  the  river  of  life 

Flows  ever  fresh  and  clear, 
And  on  its  banks  that  wond'rous  tree 

That  bears  fruit  all  the  year. 

There  "  Holy,  holy  is  the  Lord," 

Bursts  from  the  angelic  choir, 
And  angel  harpers  tune  their  harps 

To  songs  that  never  tire. 
And  on  the  throne  the  Saviour  sits, 

A  rainbow  round  his  head, 
And  at  his  feet  a  joyous  band. 

Who  praise  him  day  and  night.'* 


THE  GOLDEN  CITY. 


297 


Singing: — *'The  Beautiful  Shore."  Pure 
Gold,  p.  124. 

RECITATION. 

OVER  THE  RIVER. 

Over  the  river  there  lieth 

A  city  wond'rous  fair, 
And  never  the  eye  of  mortal 

Hath  looked  on  the  glories  there. 
But  the  whispering  angels  that  gather 

At  times  round  each  heart,  have  told 
Strange  tales  to  me  of  beauty 

That  brightens  the  City  of  Gold. 

The  gates  are  of  pearl-white  jasper, 

The  walls  are  of  amethyst. 
As  bright  as  the  clouds  of  summer, 

By  the  sunset  glory  kissed ; 
And  the  streets  of  this  far-a-way  city 

Are  paved  with  the  purest  gold, 
And  a  tithe  of  its  wond'rous  beauty, 

No  poet  ever  told. 

Often  in  dreams  1  see  it, 

Lying  so  far  away, 
And  I  catch  the  sound  of  singing, 

And  hear  the  harpers  play. 
And  my  heart  goes  out  in  longing 

To  the  city  so  wond'rous  fair, 
For  we  all  have  missed  some  loved  ones. 

And  I  know  we  shall  find  them  there. 

Ques.  —  Will  there  be  any  hunger  and 
thirst  there  ? 

Ans. — They  shall  hunger  no  more  ;  neither 
thirst  any  more,  neither  shall  the  sun  light 
on  them  nor  any  heat. 


298  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


For  the  Lamb,  which  is  in  the  midst  of  the 
throne,  shall  feed  them,  and  shall  lead  them 
unto  living  fountains  of  waters ;  and  God 
shall  wipe  away  all  tears  from  their  eyes. — 
Rev.  7 :  16,  IT. 

Ques, — Any  sickness  or  sorrow  ? 

Ans, — And  God  shall  wipe  away  all  tears 
from  their  eyes ;  and  there  shall  be  no  more 
death,  neither  sorrow,  nor  crying,  neither 
shall  there  be  any  mere  pain ;  for  the  former 
things  have  passed  away. — Rev.  21 :  4, 

Ques. — Any  weariness  or  trouble  ? 

Ans. — There  the  wicked  cease  from  troub- 
ling, and  there  the  weary  be  at  rest. — Job  3: 
17. 

RECITATION. 

MY  FATHER'S  HOUSE. 

There  is  a  place  of  sacred  rest, 

Far,  far  bej^ond  the  skies. 
Where  beaut}^  smiles  eternally, 

And  pleasure  never  dies ;  — 
My  Father's  house,  my  heavenly  home, 

Where  "  many  mansions  '*  stand, 
Prepared,  by  hands  divine,  for  all 

Who  seek  the  better  land. 
When  tossed  upon  the  waves  of  life, 

With  fear  on  every  side,  — 
When  fierceh^  howls  the  gathering  storm, 

And  foams  the  angry  tide, — 
Beyond  the  storm,  beyond  the  gloom, 

Breaks  forth  the  liglit  of  morn. 
Bright  beaming  from  my  Father's  house, 

To  cheer  the  soul  forlorn. 


THE  GOLDEK  CITY. 


29y 


In  that  pure  home  of  tearless  joy 

Earth's  parted  friends  shall  meet, 
With  smiles  of  love  that  never  fade, 

And  blessedness  complete  : 
There,  there  adieus  are  sounds  unknown ; 

Death  frowns  not  on  that  scene. 
But  life,  and  glorious  beauty,  shine, 

Untroubled  and  serene. 

Ques. — What  is  said  of  the  duration  of 
happiness  there  ? 

^Ans. — But  whosoever  drinketh  of  the  wa- 
ter that  I  shall  give  him,  shall  never  thirst : 
but  the  water  that  I  shall  give  him,  shall  be 
in  him  a  well  of  water  springing  up  into 
everlasting  life. — John  4 :  14. 

He  that  believeth  on  the  Son,  hath  ever- 
lasting life. — John  3  :  36. 

And  I  give  unto  them  eternal  life,  and  they 
shall  never  perish,  neither  shall  any  man 
pluck  them  out  of  my  hand. — John  10  :  28. 

The  gift  of  God  is  eternal  life,  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. — Rom.  6  :  23. 

To  an  inheritance  incorruptible,  and  un- 
defiled,  and  that  fadeth  not  away,  reserved 
in  heaven  for  you. — 1  Peter,  1 :  4. 


300  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


GENERAL  EXERCISE. 

FOR  FIVE  GIRLS. 
AT  THE  GATE. 

FIRST  GIRL. 

"There's  a  gate  at  the  close  of  the  pathway  of  life, 
That  leads  it  is  said  to  the  land  of  the  blest; 
But  the  mists  hide  the  country  bej^ond  from  our  sight. 

And  over  the  portal  is  written  "  rest." 
And  an  angel  with  folded  wings  doth  wait, 
At  the  gate,  at  the  gate. 

SECOND  GIRL. 

"  Those  most  beloved  we  have  seen  draw  nigh, 
Till  the  portals  shadow  is  over  them  cast, 
And  the  angel  has  opened  the  gate  with  a  sigh, 

And  away,  like  a  beautiful  dream  they  have  passed. 
In  vain  have  we  watched  for  them  early  and  late. 
At  the  gate,  at  the  gate. 

THIRD  GIRL. 

"We  have  stretched  out  our  hands  to  clasp  theirs  once  again  ; 
We  have  sought  for  those  eyes  that  have  answered  our  own ; 
We  have  called  on  each  loved  name,  so  fondly,  and  then 

We  have  waited  in  vain  for  a  look  or  a  tone. 
And  we've  mourned,  as  the  lost  dove  mourns  for  its  mate. 
At  the  gate,  at  the  gate. 

FOURTH  GIRL. 

"And  we  know  that  we,  too,  soon  the  portals  shall  gain, 
And  in  the  dark  shadow  shall  lingering  stand  ; 
Our  eyes  gazing  back  on  life's  pleasure  and  pain, 

But  our  hands  stretching  out  to  that  radiant  land. 
We  siiall  linger,  it  matters  not,  sooner  or  late, 
At  the  gate,  at  the  gate. 


THE  GOLDEN  CITY. 


301 


FIFTH  GIRL. 

"  And  the  angel  will  open  the  gate,  and  will  guide 
Our  worn  wandering  feet  to  the  country  of  peace; 
And  with  those  we  have  loved  we  shall  ever  abide, 

And  all  our  lone  waitings  and  watchings  shall  cease, 
Where  the  angels  with  folded  wings  doth  wait, 
At  the  gate,  at  the  gate." 

CLOSING  EXERCISES. 

Superintendent  and  School  recite  alternate. 

SupL — Great  is  the  Lord  and  greatly  to 
be  praised,  in  the  city  of  our  God,  in  the 
mountain  of  his  holiness. — Psa.  48 :  1. 

School. — Beautiful  for  situation,  the  joy  of 
the  whole  earth,  is  Mount  Zion,  on  the  sides 
of  the  north,  the  city  of  the  great  King. 

God  is  known  in  her  palaces  for  a  refuge. 
—Psa.  48 :  2,  3. 

Sing  :  Tune  Arlington : 

There  is  a  land  of  pure  delight, 

Where  saints  immortal  reign  ; 
Eternal  day  excludes  the  night, 

And  pleasures  hanish  pain. 

There  everlasting  spring  abides, 

And  never-fading  flowers ; 
Death,  like  a  narrow  sea,  divides 

That  heavenly  land  from  ours. 

Supt.  —  Walk  about  Zion,  and  go  round 
about  her ;  tell  the  towers  thereof.— Psa.  48: 
12. 


302  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


School, — Mark  ye  well  her  bulwarks,  con- 
sider her  palaces ;  that  ye  may  tell  it  to  the 
generation  following. — Psa.  48 :  13. 

Supt. — For  this  God  is  our  God  for  ever 
and  ever:  he  will  be  our  guide  even  unto 
death.— Psa.  48  :  14. 

Sing: 

Sweet  fields,  beyond  the  swelling  flood, 

Stand  dressed  in  living  green ; 
So  to  the  Jews  fair  Canaan  stood, 

While  Jordan  rolled  between. 

Supt. —  Sing  praises  to  the  Lord  which 
dwelleth  in  Zion :  declare  among  the  people 
his  doings. — Psa.  9 :  11. 

School, —  The  Lord  shall  reign  for  ever, 
even  thy  God,  O  Zion,  unto  all  generations. 
Praise  ye  the  Lord. — Psa.  146 :  10. 

Supt, —  Praise  the  Lord,  O,  Jerusalem ; 
praise  thy  God,  O  Zion. 

For  he  hath  strengthened  the  bars  of  thy 
gates,  he  hath  blessed  thy  children  within 
thee.— Psa.  147 :  12,  13. 

School.  —  Oh  that  the  salvation  of  Israel 
were  come  out  of  Zion !  when  the  Lord 
bringeth  back  the  captivity  of  his  people,  Ja- 
cob shall  rejoice,  and  Israel  shall  be  glad, — • 
Psa.  14 :  7. 

School  and  Congregation  sing : 


THE  GOLDEN  CITY. 


REST  FOR  THE  WEARY. 

In  the  Christian's  home  in  glory, 
There  remains  a  hmcl  of  rest ; 

There  the  Saviour's  gone  before  me, 
To  fulfili  my  soul's  request. 

Chorus. 

There  is  rest  for  the  weary, 

There  is  rest  for  the  weary, 
There  is  rest  for  the  weary, 

There  is  rest  for  you. 
On  the  other  side  of  Jordan, 

In  the  sweet  fields  of  Eden, 
Where  the  tree  of  life  is  blooming, 

There  is  rest  for  you. 

Sing,  O,  sing,  ye  heirs  of  glory; 

Shout  your  triumph  as  you  go ; 
Zion's  gate  will  open  for  you, 

You  shall  find  an  an  trance  through. 

Chorus. 


There  is  rest,  etc. 


OETICAL  ^ELECTIONS 


POETICAL  SELECTIONS  FOR 
ADULT  SCHOLARS. 


CARRYING  HOME  THE  SHEAVES. 

List!  oil,  list  to  the  reapers  this  quiet  summer  eve, 

Gathering  in  the  liarvest,  hinding  up  the  sheaves. 

List  to  the  rush  of  the  sickle,  cmting  the  golden  grain  ; 

Sinewy  liands  and  hard}^  wield  them  not  in  vain. 

Deep  in  the  valley  the  sunset  glows  on  the  glistening  leaves, 

Shines  on  the  dark-browed  maidens  carrying  home  the  sheaves. 

Kissed  by  the  breeze  and  the  sunshine,  loved  by  the  dowers  and 
birds, 

Heart  in  whose  wild  recesses,  beautiful  dreams  are  stin-ed, 
Stands  the  fairest  of  reapers,  red  lips  slightly  apart, 
While  gushes  of  plaintive  music  flow  from  her  overcliarged 
heart. 

Sings  she,  "  Oh.  life  is  dreary  here  on  these  summer  eves, 
I  grow  so  weary,  weary,  carrying  home  the  sheaves.^' 

"For  the  whirling  rush  of  the  sickles,  quivering  through  my 
brain, 

Stirs  up  a  world  of  fancies,  never  to  sleep  again. 
I  dream  of  courts  and  castles,  gateways  of  gold  and  pearls, 
Laurel  wreaths  proudly  resting  on  the  brow  of  the  peasant  girl 
Life  is  so  very  dreary  here  on  these  summer  eves, 
I  grow  so  weary,  weary,  carrying  home  the  sheaves. 
307 


308  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Thougfits  that  are  bright,  though  painful,  struggle  within  my 
breast ; 

Life  is  both  sweet  and  baneful —  I  am  not  like  the  rest. 
Would  I  could  Avord  my  longings,  sunder  this  weary  chain, 
Fly  from  this  quiet  valley,  these  sheaves  of  golden  grain. 
Life  is  so  very  dreary  here  on  these  summer  eves, 
I  grow  so  weary,  weary,  carrying  home  the  sheaves.'* 

"Maiden,  thou  art  not  lonely ;  many  like  thee  there  are, 
Stifling  their  aspirations,  still  with  their  souls  at  war. 
All  through  this  life's  great  harvest  wander  a  sorrowing  train, 
Knowing  full  w^ell  their  mission,  but  wearing  a  clogging  chain. 
Many  the  hearts  that  are  saying,  this  quiet  summer  eve, 
Oh,  I  am  weary,  weary,  carrying  home  the  sheaves. 

"Maiden,  we  all  are  reapers,  workers  in  this  great  strife ; 
Let  us  not  then  be  sleepers,  but  on  to  the  spirit's  life. 
God  hears  our  cry,  my  sister.  He  will  gather  the  ripened  grain 
Up  in  his  broad  heaven-garner,  where  life  will  be  free  from 
pain. 

Wait,  with  no  thought  of  sadness,  till  on  some  heavenly  eve, 
Come  we  with  songs  or  gladness,  carrying  home  the  sheaves." 


RING  THE  BELL  SOFTLY. 
Some  one  has  gone  from  this  strange  world  of  ours, 
No  more  to  gather  its  thorns  with  its  flowers. 
No  more  to  linger  where  sunbeams  must  fade, 
Where  in  all  beauty  death's  fingers  are  laid;] 
Weary  with  mingling  life's  bitter  with  sweet. 
Weary  with  parting  and  never  to  meet. 
Some  one  has  gone  to  the  bright  golden  shore. 
Ring  the  bell  softly,  there's  crape  on  the  door. 
Some  one  is  resting  from  sorrow  and  sin, 
Happy  where  earth's  conflicts  enter  not  in, 
Joyous  as  birds  when  the  morning  is  bright, 
When  the  sweet  sunbeams  have  brought  us  the  light. 
Weary  of  sowing  and  never  to  reap. 
Wear}''  of  labor  and  welcoming  sleep. 
Some  one's  departed  to  heaven's  bright  shore : 
Ring  the  bell  softly,  there's  crape  on  the  door. 


POETICAL  SELECTIONS. 


309 


Angels  were  anxiously  longing  to  meet 

One  who  walks  with  them  in  heaven's  bright  street; 

Loved  ones  have  whispered  that  some  one  is  blest, 

Free  from  earth's  trials  and  taking  some  rest ; 

Yes,  there  is  one  more  in  angelic  bliss, 

One  less  to  cherish,  one  less  to  kiss ; 

One  more  departed  to  heaven's  bright  shore, 

Ring  the  bell  softly,  there's  crape  on  the  door. 


BABY'S  GONE  TO  SLEEP. 

There's  a  little  pair  of  hands, 
Laid  to  rest  forever  more  ; 
There's  two  pearly  dimpled  cheeks, 
Whose  rich  blossoming  is  o'er; 
Death  has  sealed  two  little  eyes. 
That  will  no  more  smile  or  weep. 
Tiny  windows  of  the  soul. 
Little  baby's  gone  to  sleep. 

There's  another  bud  removed, 
Ere  it  felt  the  blight  of  sin ; 
Thro'  the  door  the  angels  made, 
Darling  baby  has  passed  in ; 
Far  beyond  the  azure  skies. 
Where  the  tiny  star-eyes  peep ; 
From  all  earth's  sad  doubts  and  fears, 
Little  baby's  gone  to  sleep. 

She  will  wake  in  fairer  lands, 
Where  the  angel  voices  sing ; 
There  the  floweret  shall  expand. 
There  shall  love  perfection  bring. 
She  has  reached  the  golden  shore. 
Thro'  the  river  deep  and  cold ; 
Angels  bore  her  safely  there. 
Little  baby's  gone  to  sleep. 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Angels  bore  her  safely  home ; 
So  for  her  we  may  not  weep ; 
Softly  to  the  door-way  come, 
Little  baby'  gone  to  sleep, 
She  has  only  gone  to  sleep. 


TIRED  MOTHERS. 

A  little  elbow  leans  upon  your  knee  — 

Your  tired  knee  that  has  so  much  to  bear; 
A  child's  dear  eyes  are  looking  lovingly 

From  underneath  a  thatch  of  tangled  hair. 
Perhaps  you  do  not  heed  the  velvet  touch 

Of  warm,  moist  fingers  holding  yours  so  tight ; 
You  do  not  prize  this  blessing  overmuch ; 

You  almost  are  too  tired  to  pray  to-night. 

But  it  is  blessedness !    A  year  ago 

I  did  not  see  it  as  I  do  to-day  — 
We  are  all  so  dull  and  thankless,  and  too  slow 

To  catch  the  sunshine  till  it  slips  away. 
And  now  it  seems  surpassing  strange  to  me 

That  while  I  wore  the  badge  of  motherhood, 
I  did  not  kiss  more  oft  and  tenderly 

The  little  child  that  brought  me  only  good. 

And  if,  come  night,  when  you  sit  down  to  rest. 

You  miss  this  elboAv  from  your  tired  knee  — 
This  restless,  curly  head  from  oft'  your  breast, 

This  lisping  tongue  that  chatters  constantly; 
If  from  your  own  the  dimpled  hands  had  slipped. 

And  ne'er  would  nestle  in  your  palm  again  : 
If  the  white  feet  into  their  grave  had  tripped, 

I  could  not  blame  you  for  your  heart-ache  then. 

I  wonder  so  that  mothers  ever  fret 

At  little  children  clinging  to  their  gown  ; 

Or  that  the  foot  prints,  when  the  days  are  wet, 
Are  ever  black  enough  to  make  them  frown. 


POETICAL  SELECTIONS. 


If  I  could  find  a  little  muddy  boot, 

Or  cap  or  jacket,  on  my  chamber  floor  : 

If  I  could  kiss  a  rosy,  restless  foot, 
And  hear  it  patter  in  my  home  once  more ; 

If  I  could  mend  a  broken  cart  to-day, 

To-morrow  make  a  kite  to  reach  the  sky  — 
There  is  no  woman  in  God's  world  could  say 

She  was  more  blissfully  content  than  I. 
But,  ah !  the  dainty  pillow  next  my  own 

Is  never  rumpled  by  a  shining  head  ; 
M.y  singing  birdling  from  its  nest  has  flown  ; 

The  little  bo}^  I  used  to  kiss  is  dead ! 


"HE  DOETH  ALL  THINGS  WELL." 
Bending  o'er  our  baby's  cradle. 

Filled  with  an  awful  dread, 
Lowly  came  the  whisper, 

"  Dear  wife,  our  child  is  dead." 
Swift  ceased  my  heart  from  beating  — 

Would  it  beat  again  no  more? 
Yet  through  the  blank,  the  whisper 

Seemed  repeated  o'er  and  o'er. 

All  through  that  day  of  torture, 

And  seeming  endless  night. 
My  lips  were  often  moved  in  prayer, 

But  never  once  aright. 
I  would  not  pray  for  strength  to  bear 

This  trial  He  had  sent ; 
But  madly  asked  the  jewel  back, 

Which  He  had  only  lent. 

But  tired  at  last  with  grieving, 

And  praying  fruitless  prayer. 
He  kindly  sent  sweet  slumber, 

To  banish  earthly  care. 
And  in  my  slumbers,  God-like, 

He  sent  me  sweetest  rest ; 
For  in  dreams  I  saw  my  darling 

Pressed  to  her  Saviour's  breast. 


812 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


And  somewhere  from  the  distance 

Came  a  soft,  sweet  voice  to  me, 
Saying,  "Know  thy  child  is  cared  for, 

Though  it  may  not  come  to  thee." 
Then  o'er  my  troubled  spirit 

Such  blessed  calm  there  fell, 
My  soul  caught  up  the  glad  refrain, 

"He  doeth  all  things  well!  " 


AN  EMPTY  SPOOL. 

An  empty  spool  in  my  work-box, 

An  empty  spool  unnamed  ; 
Ah,  me !  what  memories  cluster 

Around  this  spool  unclaimed. 
Like  the  spool,  my  heart  is  empty. 

Like  it  my  empty  room  ; 
Ah,  me !  all  the  world  seems  empty, 

Except  one  little  tomb. 

Where  is  the  bright -haired  baby 

That  tip-toed  c.t  my  stand. 
And  earnestly  watch' d  th'  unwinding. 

With  eager,  outstretched  hand! 
Ah!  those  rosy  little  fingers. 

That  claimed  it  as  their  own, 
How  still  they  are,  all  folded 

Beneath  a  marble  stone ! 

And  the  feet  so  pink  and  restless, 

That  often  pattering  came, 
If  perchance  there  might  be  "  another 

'Most  empty  spool  "to  claim  ; 
Those  musical  feet,  so  tiny, 

In  shoes  of  brightest  red  ; 
Ah !  my  room  is  empty,  silent, 

Without  their  merry  tread. 

And  those  eyes  so  blue  and  dancmg. 

That  sparkled  at  the  sight 
Of  an  empty  spool  in  my  work-box,  — 


POETICAL  SELECTIONS. 


How  quenched  their  azure  light! 
And  the  rippling  laugh,  so  merry, 

I  ne'er  shall  hear  it  more, 
As  the  empty  spool  went  rolling 

Across  my  chamber  floor. 

Like  the  spool,  m}^  heart  is  empty, 

Like  the  spool,  my  empty  room  ; 
Ah,  me !  all  the  world  seems  empty, 

Except  one  little  tomb. 
Yet,  no !  sweet  memories  linger, 

E'en  empty  spools  may  start ; 
And  they  fill  the  earth  with  sweetness, 

And  fill  this  lonely  heart. 


THE  LEAF'S  MISSION. 

A  heartsease  one  bright  autumn  day 

Was  nodding  ni  an  idle  way. 

Its  stem,  so  graceful  and  so  tall  — 

The  proudest  heartsease  of  them  all  — 

When,  rustling  on  the  autumn  air, 

An  oak  leaf  fluttered  here  and  there. 

Quite  crisp  and  brown,  a  great  old  leaf— 

Quite  big  and  brown  beyond  belief  — 

A  dismal  worthless-looking  thing. 

The  heartsease  wondered  what  could  bring 

A  thing  so  rumpled  up  and  dry, 

And  ugly,  as  it  fluttered  by ; 

And  when,  at  last,  a  breath  of  air 

Brought  it  quite  near,  she  whispered,  "Where, 

Do  tell  me  where  you  mean  to  go, 

And  what  can  make  you  rustle  so, 

And  what  you  mean  to  do  ?    To  me 

It  seems  you  are  too  old  to  be 

Of  an}'  use  at  all.    Pray  go  ; 

You  cannot  be  of  good,  I  know.'* 

The  old  leaf  dried  and  cast  away, 
Sighed  sadly,  saying,    Heartsease  gay. 


GATHERED  SHEAVES, 


You  will  not  always  purple  be; 

I  once  was  proud  and  fair  as  thee, 

And  used  to  help  the  great  old  oak 

A  shade  to  make  — the  storm  but  broke 

My  stem,  and  here  you  see  me  low ; 

But  good  I  yet  may  do  I  know, 

For  ever}^  leaf,  though  yourg  or  old, 

Can  do  a  little,  I  am  told  ; 

And  though  I  cannot  see  the  wa}*", 

I  rustle  lightly  while  I  ma}^, 

And  wait,  quite  sure  the  winds  that  blow 

Will  teach  me  just  the  way  to  go. 

For  even  I,  so  brown  you  see, 

A  little  good  must  surely  be." 

That  night  the  heartsease's  purple  vest 
Lay  tattered  on  her  shivering  breast ; 
The  torrents  of  the  autumn  swept 
Each  vestige  that  the  woods  had  kept 
Of  summer,  and  the  frozen  blast 
No  mercy  felt  in  whistling  past. 

"  Alas,  I  die,"  the  heartsease  sighed; 
So  ends  my  little  day  of  pride  ; 
If  some  leaf,  like  one  I  saw  to-day, 
Would  only  drift  along  this  way, 
And  wrap  me  in  its  sheltering  breast, 
I  might  live,  and  sleep,  and  rest 
Till  spring"  — when  lo !  while  yet  she  spoke, 
An  old  brown  leaf  the  silence  broke. 
And  whispered,  "  Heartsease,  live  and  see 
That  all  things  of  some  use  may  be. 
I  knew  if  I  would  only  try, 
Some  good  I  yet  might  be  —  I  die 
Upon  thy  breast  thy  life  to  be, 
To  give  thee  warmth,  my  life  to  thee.*' 

So  when  the  spring  in  beauty  broke. 
And  flowrets  from  their  slumber  woke, 
The  leaf  was  gone ;  but  there,  instead, 
The  heartsease  waved  its  purple  head. 


POETICAL  SELECTIONS.  315 


FATHER,  LEAD  ON". 

My  Father  God,  lead  on ! 
Calmly  I  follow  where  thy  guiding  hand 
Directs  my  steps.    I  would  not  trembling  stand, 
Though  all  before  the  way 
Is  dark  as  night,  I  stay 
My  soul  on  thee,  and  say, 
Father,  I  trust  thy  love  ;  lead  on. 

Just  as  thou  wilt ;  lead  on ! 
For  I  am  as  a  child,  and  know  not  how 
To  tread  the  starless  path  whose  windings  now 
Lie  hid  from  mortal  ken. 
Although  I  know  not  when 
Sweet  da}'  will  dawn  again, 
Father,  I  wait  thy  will ;  lead  on. 

I  ask  not  why  ;  lead  on  ! 
Mislead,  thou  canst  not.    Though  through  days  of  grief 
And  nights  of  anguish,  pangs  without  relief 
Or  fears  that  would  overthrow 
My  faith,  thou  bidst  me  go. 
Thy  changeless  love,  I  know, 
Father,  my  soul  will  keep ;  lead  on. 

With  thee  is  light;  lead  on! 
When  dank  and  chill  at  eve  the  night-mists  fall, 
O'erhanging  all  things  like  a  dismal  pall, 

The  gloom  with  dawn  hath  fled! 
So,  though  'mid  shades  I  tread, 
The  dayspring  o'er  my  head. 
Father,  from  thee  shall  break ;  lead  on. 

Thy  way  is  peace  ;  lead  on ! 
Made  heir  of  all  things,  I  were  yet  unblest. 
Didst  thou  not  dwell  with  me  and  make  me  rest 
Beneath  the  brooding  wing 
That  thou  dost  o'er  me  fling, 
Till  thou  th3'self  shalt  bring, 
Father,  my  spirit  home ;  lead  on. 


316 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Thou  givest  strength ;  lead  on ! 
I  cannot  sink  while  th}-  right  hand  upholds. 
Nor  comfort  lack  while  thy  kind  arm  enfolds. 
Through  all  my  soul  I  feel 
A  healing  influence  steal, 
While  at  thy  feet  I  kneel, 
Father,  in  lowly  trust :  lead  on. 

*  Twill  soon  be  o'er  ;  lead  on ! 
Left  all  behind,  earth's  heartaches  then  shall  seem 
E'en  as  memories  of  a  vanished  dream  ; 

And  when  of  griefs  and  tears 
The  golden  fruit  appears. 
Amid  the  eternal  years, 
Father,  all  thanks  be  thine !    Lead  on! 


THE  ANGEL  OF  THE  FLOWERS. 

"Where  have  you  been,  little  Margie,  the  whole  of  this  bright 
June  day  ? 

Dancing  about  in  the  meadows,  watching  the  lambs  at  play  ? 
Mocking  the  birds  in  the  green  wood  —  hearing  the  brook's 
faint  song. 

Or  up  'mid  the  hillside  roses,  did  your  little  feet  stray  so 
long?" 

"No,  mother,  not  in  the  meadow,  nor  yet  by  singing  rill. 
That  goes  and  grows  till  it  gets  so  strong  that  it  runs  the  old 
brown  mill : 

Not  where  the  birds  are  flitting,  and  the  hillside  flowers  are 
fair, 

And  the  butterflies  and  honey-bees  go  droning  through  the 
air. 

"I  was  down  in  the  church-yard,  mother,  where  the  grass 

grows  rank  and  tall. 
And  the  ivy  vine  with  fingers  fine,  creeps  over  the  old  church 
wall : 


POETICAL  SELECTIONS. 


317 


Where  the  sunshine  seems  all  fastened  out  by  the  trees  that 
grow  so  high, 

And  there's  never  a  sound  to  be  heard  all  day,  but  the  wind*3 
soft  lullaby. 

•*And,  mother,  /  know  what  makes  the  flowers  grow  every- 
where so  bright. 

For  while  I  was  resting  on  the  grass  I  saw  the  loveliest  sight ! 

I  had  shut  my  eyes  to  think  awhile,  and  when  I  opened  them 
wide, 

A  lady  in  white  with  shining  wings,  stood  smiling  at  my 
side! 

"She  kissed  me  with  her  soft,  red  lips,  and  I  wasn't  one  bit 
afraid ! 

For  her  face  was  kind,  and  her  floating  wings  such  pleasant 
music  made; 

Her  trailing  robes  shone  like  the  stars,  and  a  crown  of  roses 
fair, 

Woven  with  purple  violets,  was  resting  in  her  hair! 

"Then  she  walked  away  with  quiet  smiles,  and  at  every  step 
there  grew 

The  loveliest  flowers  you  ever  saw,  of  every  shape  and  hue  ; 
Her  white,  white  feet,  as  she  moved  away,  scarce  bent  the 

blades  of  grass. 
And  I  knew  by  the  music  in  the  air,  I  had  seen  an  angel 

pass! 

And  tJiaVs  the  way  the  sweet  flowers  grow  ;  *tis  where  those 
holy  feet 

Walk  softl}^  o'er  the  pleasant  fields,  and  through  the  mead- 
ows sweet ; 

And,  don't  you  guess  that  the  dew-drops  are  tears  that  the 
angels  cry 

For  the  roses  rare,  and  the  children  fair,  that  grow,  and  fade 
and  die  ? 

"To-night  when  the  twinkling  stars  come  out,  and  the  moon 
shines  clear  and  bright, 


318  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


I  think  she  will  surely  come  this  way  with  her  trailing  robe 
of  light, 

And  the  morning  show  sweet  blossoms,  ready  for  June's  soft 
showers, 

Made  by  the  noiseless  footsteps  of  the  angel  of  the  flowers." 


THE  STATUE  IX  CLAY. 

"Make  me  a  statue,"  said  the  King, 
"Of  marble  white  as  snow; 
It  must  be  pure  enough  to  stand 
Before  my  throne  at  my  right  hand, 
The  niche  is  waiting  —  go! 

The  sculptor  heard  the  King's  command, 

And  went  upon  his  way  : 
He  had  no  marble,  but  he  went, 
With  willing  hands,  and  high  intent, 

To  mold  his  thoughts  in  clay. 

Day  after  day  he  wrought  the  clay, 
But  knew  not  what  he  wrought ; 
He  sought  the  help  of  heart  and  brain, 
But  could  not  make  the  riddle  plain. 
It  lay  beyond  his  thought. 

To-day  the  statue  seemed  to  grow, 

To-morrow  it  stood  still ; 
The  third  day  all  was  well  again  ; 
Thus,  year  by  3'ear,  in  joy  and  pain, 

He  wrought  his  Master's  will. 

At  last  his  life-long  work  was  done  — 

It  was  a  happy  day  ; 
He  took  his  statue  to  the  King, 
But  trembled  like  a  guilty  thing, 

Because  it  was  but  clay. 

Where  is  my  statue  ?  "  asked  the  Kinge 
"Here,  Lord,"  the  sculptor  said. 
"  But  I  commanded  marble."    "  True, 
But  lacking  that,  what  could  I  do 
But  mold  in  clay  instead  ?  ** 


POETICAL  SELECTIONS, 


"Thou  shalt  not  unrewarded  go, 
Since  thou  hast  done  thy  best : 
Thy  statue  shall  acceptance  win, 
It  shall  be  as  it  should  have  been, 
For  I  will  do  the  rest." 

He  touched  the  statue,  and  it  changed; 

The  clay  falls  off,  and  lo ! 
A  marble  shape  before  him  stands, 
The  perfect  work  of  heavenly  hands, 

An  angel  pure  as  snow ! 


THE  TEMPLE  OFFERING. 

"  The  last  shall  he  first,  and  the  first  lasV^ 

The  rich  man  took  from  the  purple  fold 
Of  his  robe  a  piece  of  shining  gold. 

Cast  in  the  gift,  a  treasure  rare, 

And  then  passed  on  with  a  lordly  air, 

As  he  thought  of  merit  justly  won. 
By  his  noble  deed,  so  nobh'  done. 

The  widow  followed,  with  lowly  mien, — 
A  respectful  space  was  placed  between, — 

Cast  in  two  mites,  and  her  thought  seemed  bold, 
When  she  wished  their  worth  as  the  shining  gold. 

The  rich  man  rolled  in  his  state  away. 
Drawn  by  his  charger,  sleek  and  gray. 

The  widow  her  lowly  pathway  trod. 

And  her  heart  was  filled  with  the  thought  of  God, 

Of  the  loving-kindness  that  gave  her  all 

She  had  ever  prized,  and  her  gift  seemed  small. 

Long  years  have  passed,  and  the  rich  man's  name 
Were  lost,  were  it  not  for  the  widow's  fame. 


820  GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


•     His  deed  without  love,  so  cold  and  dead, 
Had  sunk  in  the  waves  of  time  as  lead. 

Her  humble  gift  was  a  seed  with  wings, 
And  rich  the  harvest  that  from  it  springs. 

Her  wish  that  the  baser  coin  were  gold, 
Had  been  fulfilled  a  thousand  fold. 

So  the  promise  comes,  we  know  not  how. 
And  the  widow's  mite  are  millions  now. 

The  rich  man's  deed  is  but  seen  afar, 
The  shadow  that  follows  the  widow's  star, 

Which  adown  the  ages  still  shall  shine, 
To  show  the  wisdom  and  grace  divine, 

Of  Him  who  reckons  each  deed  apart, 

Not  by  worth  of  metal,  but  warmth  of  hearth. 


LITTLE  MARY'S  WISH. 

I  ha  76  seen  the  first  robin  of  spring,  mother  dear. 

And  have  heard  the  brown  darling  sing ; 
You  said,  "  Hear  it  and  wish,  and  'twill  surely  come  true"; 

So  I've  wished  such  a  beautiful  thing! 

thought  I  would  like  to  ask  something  for  you. 
But  I  couldn't  think  what  there  could  be 
That  you' d  want  while  you.  had  all  these  beautiful  things, 
Besides,  you  have  papa  and  me ! 

So  I  wished  for  a  ladder  so  long  that  'twould  stand, 

One  end  by  your  own  cottage  door, 
And  the  other  go  up  past  the  moon  and  the  stars. 

And  lean  against  heaven's  white  floor. 

Then  I'd  get  you  to  put  on  my  pretty  white  dress. 

With  my  sash  and  my  darling  new  shoes, 
And  I'd  find  some  white  roses  to  take  up  to  God— 

The  most  beautiful  ones  I  could  choose. 


POETICAL  SELECTIONS. 


And  you  and  dear  papa  would  sit  on  the  ground 
And  kiss  me  and  tell  me  "  Good  bye  "  : 

Then  I'd  go  up  the  ladder  far  out  of  your  sight, 
'Till  I  came  to  the  door  in  the  sky  1 

I  wonder  if  God  keeps  the  door  fastened  tight  I 

If  but  one  little  crack  I  could  see, 
I  would  whisper,  "  Please  God,  let  this  little  girl  in; 

She's  as  tired  as  e'er  she  can  be! 

She  came  all  alone  from  the  earth  to  the  sky  ; 

For  she's  always  been  wanting  to  see 
The  gardens  of  Heaven  with  their  robins  and  flowers, 

Please,  God,  is  there  room  there  for  me? 

And  then  when  the  angels  had  opened  the  door, 
God  would  say,  "  Bring  the  little  child  here." 

But  he'd  speak  it  so  softly  I'd  not  be  afraid ; 
And  he'd  smile  just  like  you,  mother  dear! 

He  would  put  his  kind  arms  round  3'our  dear  little  girl. 

And  I'd  ask  him  to  send  down  for  you, 
And  papa,  and  cousin,  and  all  that  I  love  — 

O  dear!  don't  you  wish  'twould  come  true? 

The  next  spring  time,  when  the  robins  came  home. 

They  sang  over  grasses  and  flowers, 
That  grew  where  the  foot  of  the  ladder  stood. 

Whose  top  reached  the  heavenly  bowers. 

And  the  parents  had  dressed  the  pale,  still  child 

For  her  flight  to  the  summer  land. 
In  a  fair  white  robe  with  one  snow  white  rose 

Folded  tight  in  her  pulseless  hand. 

And  now,  at  the  foot  of  fhe  ladder  they  sit, 

Looking  upward  with  quiet  tears. 
Till  the  beckoning  hand  and  the  fluttering  robe 

Of  the  child  at  the  top  appears. 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


LITTLE  MARGERY. 

Kneeling,  white-robed,  sleepy  eyes, 
Peeping  through  the  tangled  hair, 

"  Now  I  lay  me —  I'm  so  tired  — 
Auntie,  God  knows  all  my  prayer; 
HeUl  keep  little  Margery." 

Watching  by  the  little  bed, 
Dreaming  of  the  coming  years, 

Much  I  wonder  what  they^ll  bring, 
Most  of  smiles  or  most  of  tears, 
To  my  little  Margeiy. 

Will  the  simple,  trusting  faith 
Shining  in  the  childish  breast 

Always  be  so  clear  and  bright? 
Will  God  always  know  the  rest, 
Loving  little  Margery? 

As  the  weary  years  go  on, 
And  you  are  a  child  no  more. 

But  a  woman,  trouble-worn. 
Will  it  come  —  this  faith  of  yours— 
Blessing  3'ou,  dear  Margery? 

If  your  sweetest  love  shall  fail. 
And  your  idol  turn  to  dust. 

Will  you  bow  to  meet  the  blow, 
Owning  all  God's  ways  are  just? 
Can  you,  sorrowing  Margery? 

Should  3'our  life-path  grow  so  dark 
You  can  see  no  step  ahead. 

Will  you  lay  your  hand  in  His, 
Trusting  by  Him  to  be  led 
To  the  light,  my  Margery? 

Will  the  woman,  folding  down 
Peaceful  hands  across  her  breast, 

Whisper,  with  her  old  belief, 
"  God,  m}'  Father,  knows  the  rest, 
He'll  take  tired  Margery?  ** 


POETICAL  SELECTIONS. 


True,  my  darling,  life  is  long, 
And  its  ways  are  dark  and  dim ; 

But  God  knows  the  path  you  tread; 
I  can  leave  you  safe  with  him, 
Always  little  Margery. 

He  will  keep  your  childish  faith. 
Through  your  weary  woman  years, 

Shining  ever  strong  and  bright. 
Never  dimmed  by  saddest  tears, 
Trusting  little  Margery. 

You  have  taught  a  lesson  sweet 
To  a  yearning,  restless  soul ; 

We  pray  in  snatches,  ask  a  part, 
But  God  above  us  knows  the  whole, 
And  answers  baby  Margery. 


GOD  GIVETH  US  THIS  GLORIOUS  WORLD. 

God  giveth  us  this  glorious  world, 

•  Its  sunbeams  and  its  showers. 

Its  trees  with  vernal  beauty  crowned, 

And  brightly  blooming  flowers. 
The  swelling  plains,  where  waves  the  grass 

Like  billows  of  the  sea, 
As  summer  breezes  o'er  it  pass 

On  pinions  soft  and  free. 

He  giveth  us  the  welcome  day,  — 

The  golden  sun  whose  beams 
Break  through  the  dusky  shades  of  night 

Like  Hope's  celestial  gleams. 
And  peaceful  eve,  whose  crown  outvies 

The  richest  diadems, — 
For  heaven's  own  jewels  glitter  there 

Ten  thousand,  thousand  gems. 

God  giveth  us  the  countless  streams. 
Whose  silver  waters  flow 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


Through  flowery  field  and  verdant  plain 
With  music  sweet  and  low;  — 

The  mount,  that  to  the  lofty  skies 
Its  towering  head  uplifts !  — 

Above,  below,  and  everywhere, 
Are  our  Creator's  gifts. 

He  giveth  us  a  heart  to  love 

All  that  he  here  hath  made, 
But  asks  that  at  his  shrine  alone 

Our  homage  should  be  paid. 
Yet,  0,  the  base  ingratitude 

Of  man's  rebellious  soul, — 
He  stoops  to  be  the  slave  of  sin, 

Yields  to  its  vile  control  1 

Strange  that  the  goodness  God  displays, 

In  his  creative  powers, 
Should  fail  so  oft  to  rouse  to  life 

The  gratitude  of  ours. 
Strange  that  on  earth's  inferior  things. 

As  grovelling  as  the  sod, 
Man  wastes  the  freshness  of  a  mind 

Immortal  as  its  God. 


THE  UNFINISHED  PRAYER. 

"Now  I  lay  me,"  —  say  it,  darling, 
"Lay  me,"  lisped  the  tiny  lips 
Of  my  daughter,  kneeling,  bending 
O'er  her  folded  finger  tips. 

"Down  to  sleep ;  "  "  To  sleep,"  she  murmured, 

And  the  curly  head  dropped  low ; 
"  I  pray  the  Lord,"  I  gently  added, 
"You  can  say  it  all  I  know." 

"Pray  the  Lord  "  — the  words  came  faintly. 
Fainter  still  —  "  my  soul  to  keep." 
Then  the  tired  head  fairly  nodded. 
And  the  child  was  fast  asleep. 


POETICAL  SELECTIOKS. 


But  the  dewj''  eyes  half  opened, 

When  I  clasped  her  to  my  breast, 
And  the  dear  voice  softly  whispered, 
** Mamma,  God  knows  all  the  rest.** 

O,  the  trusting,  sweet  confiding 
Of  the  child  heart!    Would  that  I 

Thus  might  trust  my  heavenly  Father* 
He  who  hears  my  feeblest  cry. 


DAISY>S  PRAYER. 

Darling  little  Daisy, 
With  her  golden  hair, 

Sitting  at  the  table. 
In  her  own  high  chair. 

Closed  the  dewy  eyelids, 
Over  blue  eyes  bright ; 

Drooped  the  golden  flashes 
Over  cheeks  so  white. 

Bent  above  the  table, 
Little  head  so  fair  : 

Daisy's  supper's  waiting 
Till  she  says  her  prayer. 

So  she  clasps  her  fingers 
As  when  wont  to  pray  ; 

"  O,  dear  me,"  sighs  Daisy, 
"  What  does  papa  say?  ** 

Lower  bows  her  forehead, 
O'er  the  table  then ; 

And  she  whispers  softly, 
"Jesus'  sake,  Amen. 

Darling  little  Daisy, 

With  your  winsome  face, 
May  the  blessed  Saviour 

Daily  give  his  grace. 


GATHERED  S&EAVES. 


May  you  never  venture 

Any  path  to  take, 
Till  you've  asked  God's  blessing, 

For  dear  Jesus'  sake. 

From  all  sin  and  wandering 
May  good  angels  keep ; 

And  at  last  in  Jesus, 
May  you  fall  asleep. 


WEIGHING  THE  BABY. 

"  How  many  pounds  does  the  baby  weigh, 
Baby  who  came  but  a  month  ago? 
How  many  pounds  from  the  crowning  curl 
To  the  rosy  point  of  the  restless  toe  ?  " 

Grandfather  ties  the  'kerchief's  knot, 
Tenderly  guides  the  swinging  weight, 
And  carefully  over  his  glasses  peers 
To  read  the  record,  "  only  eight.'*-' 

Softly  the  echo  goes  around ; 
The  father  laughs  at  the  tiny  girl, 
The  fair  young  mother  sings  the  words, 
While  grandmother  smoothes  the  golden  cii 

And  stooping  above  the  precious  thing. 
Nestles  a  kiss  within  a  prayer. 
Murmuring  softly,  "  Little  one, 
Grandfather  did  not  weigh  you  fair." 

Nobody  weighed  the  babj^^s  smile. 
Or  the  love  that  came  with  the  helpless  one  • 
Nobody  weighed  the  threads  of  care, 
From  which  a  woman's  life  is  spun. 

No  index  tells  the  mighty  worth 
Of  little  baby's  quiet  breath, 
A  soft,  unceasing  metronome. 
Patient,  and  faithful  unto  death. 


POETICAL  SELECTIONS. 


Nobody  weighed  the  baby's  soul, 
For  here  on  earth  no  weight  there  be 
That  could  avail :  God  only  knows 
Its  value  in  eternity. 

Only  eight  pounds  to  hold  a  soul 
That  seek  no  angePs  silver  wings, 
But  shines  in  it,  this  human  guise, 
Within  so  small  and  frail  a  thing. 

O,  mother  laugh  3^our  merry  note  , 
Be  gay  and  glad,  but  don't  forget 
From  baby's  eyes  looks  out  a  soul 
That  claims  a  place  in  Eden  yet. 


"HE  LEADETH  ME." 

In  pastures  green  ?  "    Not  alwaj^s ;  sometimes  He, 
Who  knoweth  best,  in  kindness  leadeth  me 
In  weary  ways,  where  heavy  shadows  be  ; 

Out  of  the  sunshine  warm  and  soft  and  bright, 
Out  of  the  sunshine  into  darkest  night, 
I  oft  would  faint  with  sorrow  and  affright, 

Only  for  this  —  I  know  he  holds  my  hand  ; 
So,  whether  led  in  green  or  desert  land, 
I  trust,  although  I  may  not  understand. 

And  by  "  still  waters  ?  "  No,  not  ahv^a^^s  so ; 
Ofttimes  the  heavy  tempests  round  me  blow, 
And  o'er  my  soul  the  waves  and  billows  go. 

But  when  the  storm  beats  loudest,  and  I  cry 
Aloud  for  help,  the  Master  standeth  by, 
And  whispers  to  my  soul;  "Lo,  it  is  I." 

Above  the  tempest  wild  I  hear  Him  say, 
"  Beyond  this  darkness  lies  the  perfect  da^ 
In  every  path  of  thine  I  lead  the  way." 


GATHERED  SHEAVES. 


So,  whether  on  the  hill-tops  high  and  fair 

I  dwell,  or  in  the  sunless  valleys  where 

The  shadows  lie,  —  what  matter?   He  is  there. 

So  where  He  leads  me,  I  can  safely  go; 
And  in  the  blest  hereafter  I  shall  know, 
Why  in  His  wisdom  He  hath  led  me  so. 


NOW  I  LAY  ME  DOWN  TO  SLEEP. 

In  the  quiet  nursery  chambers, 

Snowy  pillows  yet  unpressed. 
See  the  forms  of  little  children 

Kneeling  white-robed,  for  their  rest ; 
All  in  quiet  nursery  chambers, 

While  the  dusky  shadows  creep, 
Hear  the  voices  of  the  children — 

"Now  I  lay  me  down  to  sleep.'* 

In  the  meadow  and  the  mountain 

Calmly  shine  the  winter  stars, 
But  across  the  glistening  lowlands 

Slants  the  moonlight* s  silver  bars. 
In  the  silence  and  the  darkness. 

Darkness  growing  still  more  deep, 
Listen  to  the  little  children 

Praying  God  their  souls  to  keep. 

"  If  we  die  "  —  so  pray  the  children, 
And  the  mother's  head  drops  low  j 
(One  from  out  her  fold  is  sleeping 
Deep  beneath  the  winter's  snow:) 
"Take  our  souls ; "  and  past  the  casement 
Flits  a  gleam  of  crystal  light. 
Like  the  trailing  of  his  garments, 
Walking  evermore  in  white. 

Little  souls  that  stand  expectant. 

Listen  at  the  gates  of  life ; 
Hearing,  far  away,  the  murmur 

Of  the  tumult  and  the  strife ; 


POETICAL  SELECTIONS. 


329 


We,  who  fight  beneath  those  banners, 
Meeting  ranks  of  foeman  there, 

Find  a  deeper,  'broader  meaning 
In  your  simple  vesper  prayer. 

When  your  hands  shall  grasp  this  standard 

Which  to-da}''  you  watch  from  far. 
When  your  deeds  shall  shape  the  conflict 

In  this  universal  war, 
Pray  to  Him,  the  God  of  battles, 

Whose  strong  eye  can  never  sleep, 
In  the  warring  of  temptation, 

Firm  and  true  your  souls  to  keep. 

When  the  combat  ends,  and  slowly 

Clears  the  smoke  from  out  the  skies, 
Then,  far  down  the  purple  distance, 

All  the  noise  of  battle  dies. 
When  the  last  night's  solemn  shadows 

Settle  down  on  you  and  me, 
May  the  love  that  never  faileth 

Take  our  souls  eternally. 


UNIVERSITY  OF  ILLINOIS-URBANA 


3  0112  060160220 


